The ACT Government has today released further information on the next step of its transition to a zero-emission bus fleet – a key project for job creation and taking real action on climate change.
Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel said he was very pleased with the interest shown by the market to date, with over 100 registrations from a wide range of industry sectors as part of pre-procurement market sounding.
"The procurement of new battery electric buses has attracted wide interest and gives us confidence of getting the right solution to successfully transition our fleet to zero emissions," Minister Steel said.
"Industry briefings will include information about our requirements not only to procure the first 90 battery electric buses, but also the associated charging infrastructure and essential training packages required to upskill our workforce to the new technology.
"Key to this transition and our city's economic recovery is the delivery of a comprehensive skills and training package for our workforce including bus drivers, transport managers and diesel mechanics.
"A zero emissions transition of our bus fleet the ACT is further cementing its place as one of the leading jurisdictions to take strong, effective and real action on climate change whilst improving the public transport experience for passengers."
The public can now visit the Transport Canberra website to access the Industry Project Brief on our first 90 battery electric buses and the Zero-Emission Transition Plan for Transport Canberra.
"We expect that the buses will help to reduce the fleet's emissions by over 20 per cent, or around 7000 tonnes of CO2 a year," Minister Steel said.
"The procurement process will move to the next stage later this year with the current market soundings used to inform the preferred procurement approach.
"The formal procurement process will commence in the third quarter of 2021 with the final buses delivered no later than 2024."
Minister Steel said that Transport Canberra would also shortly commence the tender process for 34 replacement lower and zero emission buses so the final orange Renault buses that pre-date euro‑emissions standards can be retired from the fleet.
"These buses will be procured via a short-term lease, providing a modern, disability accessible fleet to support Canberra's bus operations while we build the infrastructure needed to grow our zero emissions fleet," Minister Steel said.
To view the Industry Project Brief and to participate in the market sounding visit the Transport Canberra or Tenders ACT website.
The Zero Emission Transition Plan for Transport Canberra can be viewed on the Transport Canberra website.
