Strategic Alliance for Sustainable Transport
Openreach, the UK’s premier broadband network provider, has struck a pioneering deal to use First Bus’ expansive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This collaboration sees Openreach align with other major entities like Police Scotland and parcel delivery service DPD, tapping into First Bus’ shared charging facilities and marking a significant step towards sustainable corporate practices.
Charging Ahead with Electric Vehicles
Initially, Openreach will station up to 30 electric vehicles from its fleet at First Bus depots in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Leicester. This strategic positioning allows Openreach engineers to efficiently recharge their vehicles while contributing to a greener environment. Openreach, with over 3,000 EVs and a role in the EV100 global initiative, is at the forefront of the drive towards an electric-powered future.
First Bus’ Zero Emission Mission
Complementing Openreach’s commitment, First Bus is aggressively expanding its electric bus fleet, aiming to have more than 600 emission-free buses in operation by March 2024. The company is also set to establish four fully electric bus depots, with a total of nine sites equipped with electric charging capabilities, demonstrating its dedication to clean energy and sustainable transport solutions.
Joint Efforts for a Greener Tomorrow
Robert Thorburn, Openreach Scotland’s partnership director, expresses enthusiasm for the novel collaboration with First Bus, emphasizing the mutual benefits of shared charging facilities. This initiative not only alleviates the demand on public charging points but also provides convenient solutions for engineers facing charging challenges at home. Thorburn highlights the importance of collaborative learning and innovation in overcoming obstacles on the path to a low-carbon future.
First Bus Champions Community-Centric Decarbonisation
Faizan Ahmad, the decarbonisation programme director at First Bus, echoes the sentiments of collaboration and community benefits. He underlines the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing air quality, offering a smart solution that aligns with the interests of businesses and the wider community. First Bus is actively seeking partnerships with businesses and organisations interested in leveraging their electrified depots across various UK locations.
Electric Synergy Fuels Future Transport
The synergy between Openreach and First Bus serves as a model for how businesses can work together to promote sustainable practices and support the transition to electric vehicles. This partnership not only advances their own green agendas but also sets a precedent for other companies to follow suit in the collective effort to combat climate change.
