Stagecoach partners with Schneider Electric to power greener bus journeys across the UK

26/11/2024

Author: Mankirat Kaur

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is working with Stagecoach, the UK’s largest transport operator, as it heads towards zero emission travel.

Stagecoach is embarking on a nationwide programme to electrify its bus fleet and deliver greener public transport options. It is partnering with Schneider Electric to provide the critical electrical infrastructure, software, and services to support this move. 

The domestic transport sector emits the largest amount of greenhouse gases in the UK at 29.1% in 2023 according to government figures. Buses have a key role to play in meeting the UK’s 2050 net zero target and the move to zero emission transport alternatives is critical.

Schneider Electric is delivering its EcoStruxure for eMobility solution to multiple Stagecoach sites across the UK. This includes state-of-the-art ultra-rapid EV charging points, electrical distribution infrastructure, and EcoCare membership. This will ensure the smart, reliable charging of Stagecoach’s electric bus fleet with a modular approach to meet future needs as Stagecoach’s electric fleet grows.

As an EcoCare member, Stagecoach will receive enhanced support allowing it to take a more proactive and optimised approach to maintenance. Thanks to remote monitoring 24/7, data insights to pre-empt alarms and prevent mission-critical issues, and condition-based maintenance, the risk of downtime is reduced and continued reliability of bus services ensured.  

Smart EV charging solution 

Schneider Electric is equipping Stagecoach with a comprehensive energy solution designed to meet their specific needs. This includes a medium voltage/low voltage package substation, which delivers electricity from the grid via a single-source outdoor assembly tailored to Stagecoach's requirements. Additionally, Schneider Electric will supply LV feeder pillars—outdoor low voltage switchboards that distribute and control the electricity supply effectively.

The solution also features the EVlink Pro DC, a next-generation ultra-rapid EV charging station designed to maximize energy efficiency and ensure reliable performance. To further enhance the system, Stagecoach will benefit from Schneider Electric's EcoCare membership. This service provides advanced support through data analytics, 24/7 remote monitoring, and predictive maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and uptime for the connected assets.

"Stagecoach is committed to zero emission transport and we are expanding our fleet of state-of-the art electric buses to meet our goals. As part of this transition, it’s vital we have the infrastructure to ensure smart, reliable charging of our fleet,” said Tony Cockcroft, asset management and infrastructure director, at Stagecoach. “Schneider Electric is the obvious choice as our partner on this journey. It is a leader in energy transition across the public transport sector offering smart charging solutions which can adapt as we move towards the total electrification of our nationwide fleet.” 

“Our services carry millions of passengers every day and a safe and reliable service is vital,” Cockcroft continued. “Our new approach to support and maintenance means we can take a more proactive, planned approach, working hand-in-hand with Schneider Electric experts. We can quickly identify possible issues before they become major headaches and plan our works with minimal impact on our bus services.”

“Picking up the pace of the electrification of public transport is critical as we head towards our net zero targets. For many, it can be challenging to match operational needs with sustainability goals,” said David Hall, Schneider Electric’s vice president, Power Systems, UK&I. “We are working with Stagecoach to ensure it has the infrastructure, insights, and support it needs to ensure reliable, greener journeys for its passengers.”