E-fleet solutions provider VEV has announced the completion of Stagecoach’s electric bus hub in Chesterfield.
Working closely with Stagecoach, VEV provided comprehensive support for its electrification strategy starting with detailed fleet and power analysis, followed by charger installation, staff training, 24/7 operational assistance, generating insights on its electric fleet operations.
The project is one of four depot electrification initiatives announced between VEV and Stagecoach, which will collectively support 150 electric buses in Chesterfield, Leamington, Nuneaton and Rugby.
This rollout will see 57 electric buses deployed in Spring 2025, replacing more than two-thirds of Stagecoach’s diesel fleet serving Chesterfield and northeastern Derbyshire.
The project received partial funding through the ZEBRA 2 scheme and was further funded by Derbyshire County Council and Stagecoach itself.
Depot infrastructure features 27 dual DC 120kW chargers manufactured by Eko Energetyka, providing 54 charging sockets, as well as a 2.5MVA power upgrade.
A solar installation of 234kWp is currently under construction at the site, with rooftop solar panels which will generate about 200MWh of power annually at roughly half the cost of grid electricity.
Installation of the smart charging and energy management platform, VEV-IQ enables Stagecoach to utilise dynamic load management and optimise power purchasing.
Tony Cockcroft, Asset Management Director of Stagecoach said: “Our Chesterfield EV depot marks a significant step forward in our electrification journey.
“VEV’s support has been crucial in ensuring a smooth transition to electric operations.
“The sophisticated VEV-IQ platform provides us with the insights and control we need to optimise our fleet operations, make informed decisions about our business and enable additional revenue generation.”
