New Zero Emission Bus depot to be built in Macquarie Park
Transport NSW is spearheading an initiative aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of our bus network with Macquarie Park emerging as a pivotal hub.
This comprehensive initiative comprises the construction of cutting-edge facilities in Macquarie Park and the renovation of 11 existing bus depots, fostering the creation of 1,300 jobs annually.
Aligned with NSW Government’s commitment to achieve zero emissions by 2050, this initiative focuses on transitioning NSW’s fleet of over 8,000 buses to Zero Emission Buses. By harnessing energy from renewable sources like solar and wind, ZEBs will offer passengers a clean and comfortable travel experience, free from carbon emissions.
A 2022 survey conducted by Keolis Downer across a number of Brisbane regions revealed that 80% of respondents were highly satisfied with ZEBs while more than half of the respondents acknowledged that the introduction of ZEBs motivated them to use public transport more frequently.
The transition to ZEBs is anticipated to be completed in Greater Sydney by 2035, with over 100 electric buses already deployed across New South Wales. By 2028, a forecasted 1,700 Zero Emission Buses will be on Sydney roads. Additionally, a successful trial of hydrogen-powered buses on the Central Coast, manufactured by ARCC Engineering, have now progressed to the Illawarra region.
Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen lauded the success of the trials:
“We’re committed to transitioning the state’s fleet of 8,000 diesel and gas buses on our public transport network to zero emissions technology. That means rolling out electric buses onto roads in Sydney and Newcastle, and trialling technology like hydrogen buses in other parts of the state.”
Ongoing developments within Macquarie Park, Australia’s original innovation district presents new opportunities for sustainability and innovation.
These changes are estimated to reduce 509,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per annum equivalent to mitigating the environmental impact of over 391,000 newly registered cars in Sydney annually.
