EVALUATION COMPLETE
Electrification of buses in South Australia is a near-term action to reduce transport emissions, forming part of the Australian Government’s Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Road Map and Action Plan. The proposal aligns with priorities identified in the Infrastructure Policy Statement, including reducing transport emissions. The South Australian Government has a target of zero emission public transport by 2050, aiming to replace all existing diesel-powered buses across the network.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
The proposal would enable South Australia to transition its public bus fleet, comprising approximately 1,000 diesel-powered vehicles, to Zero Emissions Buses (ZEBs), supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal is focussed on the enabling infrastructure needed to support the rollout and operation of ZEBs (not the ZEBs themselves), such as depot upgrades, charging infrastructure and power grid upgrades.
INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 year pipeline. The Australian Government has previously funded $2.5 million for planning depot infrastructure.
OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES
This proposal has the potential to:
- Support national emissions targets – through the replacement of the state’s 1,000 public transport buses to zero emissions technology.
- Improve liveability – zero emissions electric-powered buses would result in quieter streets and cleaner air with no bus exhaust fumes.
- Improve amenity – ZEBs reduce air and noise pollution and provide a smoother ride and improved comfort for passengers.
NEXT STEPS
Proponent to develop potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework) that demonstrates:
- a program for procuring and deploying ZEBs, including identifying desired program outcomes, the package of infrastructure upgrades needed to support ZEBs and the optimal staging of upgrades
- a prioritisation framework that will be used on an ongoing basis to stage delivery.