Renewable Energy Driving Greater Manchester’s Transport Network

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In a significant stride towards environmental sustainability, Greater Manchester is revolutionising its public transport system with a bold commitment to carbon neutrality, powered entirely by clean energy. At the heart of this initiative lies the Bee Network, a visionary public transport project that aims to not only enhance mobility but also facilitate a greener future for the region.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has recently secured a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA), ensuring that the trams of the Bee Network will operate using 100% renewable energy. This energy will be sourced from a newly constructed solar or wind farm, reinforcing the city’s dedication to sustainability.

What exactly is a power purchase agreement? In essence, it’s a long-term contract between an energy generator and a buyer, guaranteeing the purchase of energy at a fixed price. This arrangement is particularly advantageous as it helps to mitigate running costs while shielding the city from unpredictable spikes in energy prices, a crucial factor in today’s volatile market.

The estimated value of this PPA is around £57 million over a period of 15 years, which is expected to cover the current annual energy demand of the Metrolink system. Moreover, there are plans to expand this agreement in the future to accommodate the energy needs of an increasingly electrified bus network, which is projected to nearly quadruple its annual energy consumption. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates Greater Manchester’s commitment to not just maintaining but enhancing its public transport infrastructure.

In addition to this renewable energy initiative, Greater Manchester’s Clean Air Plan is set to inject £51.1 million into the transportation system. This investment will fund 40 new zero-emission buses, alongside 77 Euro VI standard buses and the necessary charging infrastructure. These efforts are crucial in reducing air pollution and improving the overall quality of life for residents.

By the end of March 2025, projections indicate that over half (52%) of the buses in the Bee Network will be newly introduced models, while a remarkable 75% of the fleet will be less than four years old. This is a significant improvement compared to the average fleet age of 9.5 years in 2019, showcasing a substantial commitment to modernising public transport in the region.

The growth of electric buses is particularly notable, with their numbers rising from fewer than 1% prior to the franchising initiative to an impressive 25% by this summer. This rapid expansion reflects the city’s dedication to embracing cleaner technologies and reducing its carbon footprint.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, expressed his enthusiasm regarding these developments, stating: “The Bee Network is the key to unlocking a new green revolution across Greater Manchester. With cleaner, more reliable public transport, we can cut carbon emissions, improve services for passengers, and clear up the air throughout our city-region.”

Burnham emphasised the importance of these advancements, stating, “We’re making rapid progress to electrify our bus fleet and our depots, and we are on track to have a fully electric network by 2030. Locking in a long-term, stable supply of renewable energy will help us meet that goal, delivering new net-zero infrastructure and driving down emissions across the network.”

This ambitious plan not only positions Greater Manchester as a leader in sustainable transport but also aligns with the broader goals of achieving net-zero emissions across the UK. The integration of renewable energy into public transport is a crucial step in reducing the carbon footprint of the city and improving air quality for its residents.

In conclusion, Greater Manchester is setting an inspiring example for cities around the globe by committing to a cleaner, greener public transport network. The combination of renewable energy sourcing and the introduction of new electric buses marks a pivotal moment in the city’s journey towards sustainability. The efforts of TfGM, backed by the local government and community support, reflect a shared vision for a healthier environment and a more sustainable future.

As we continue to monitor developments in sustainable transport, the initiatives in Greater Manchester serve as a beacon of hope and a model for other urban areas striving to achieve net-zero emissions. The journey is far from over, but with continued investment and innovation, Greater Manchester is paving the way for a brighter, greener future.