A major push towards greener public transport is gathering pace as new electric-ready bus depots are brought online, paving the way for hundreds of zero-emission vehicles across the UK.
More than 1,000 electric buses are now supported by upgraded infrastructure at 17 depots operated by Stagecoach, following a nationwide rollout delivered by independent distribution network operator Aurora Utilities.
The project includes a newly connected depot in Barnstaple, Devon, alongside sites in Aldershot, Arbroath, Ardrossan, Ash Grove, Barking, Bow, Bromley, Cheltenham, Dover, Dundee, Exeter, Gloucester, Kilmarnock, Leyton, St Andrews and Torquay.
Announced on Tuesday, April 14, the programme is designed to expand capacity for around 1,330 electric buses, representing more than 16% of Stagecoach’s UK fleet. The upgrades are also expected to cut tens of thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions each year.
Aurora Utilities is responsible for adopting and operating the new grid connections needed to power high-capacity electric vehicle charging infrastructure, enabling faster and more flexible connections.
Simon Reilly, chief executive of Aurora, said: “Stagecoach is moving at pace to decarbonise its fleet, and we are proud to be energising the infrastructure that makes that possible.
“Each new connection brings hundreds of zero-emission buses closer to reality on UK roads.
“Our team’s experience and strong relationships with network operators mean we can deliver faster, smarter grid solutions that turn net zero ambitions into operational progress.”
Tony Cockcroft, asset management and infrastructure director at Stagecoach, added: “Electrifying our nationwide depots is critical to delivering a modern, sustainable public transport network.
“Aurora’s expertise as an IDNO has allowed us to accelerate new connections, and get more electric buses on the road sooner, lowering our emissions and benefiting the communities we serve through more reliable services.”
Alongside electrifying its fleet, Stagecoach is also investing in battery storage and on-site solar power to reduce reliance on the grid and improve energy resilience.
Aurora, which was licensed by Ofgem in 2024 and backed by a $200 million investment from I Squared, works with transport operators, developers and public sector organisations to deliver grid connections supporting decarbonisation efforts nationwide.
