Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 April 2024
149. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the transition to low-emission buses in the public urban fleets as outlined in the National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18498/24]
View answerThe Government is committed to the decarbonisation of the public transport sector in line with the Climate Action Plan. No new diesel-only buses have been purchased for urban public service obligation bus fleets since July 2019, as set out in the National Development Plan 2018-2027. The transition to a zero-emission urban bus fleet is currently programmed to take up until 2035, based on replacement of non-zero-emission buses as they reach the end of their efficient service lives.
Electric buses produce no emissions and offer reduced interior and exterior noise levels compared to diesel buses. This transition to electric buses will result in cleaner air and less noise pollution in areas where the buses are operating, while also providing a quieter journey for passengers.
The first order of 100 double deck electric buses for the Dublin network was placed in 2022 and all were delivered by the end of last year. Circa 40 of these buses are in service now using charging infrastructure at Phibsborough and Summerhill bus depots and all are scheduled to go into operation over the coming months.
The first phase of depot electrification to support the transition to zero-emission buses for Limerick city was inaugurated in April, providing 30 high-power charging guns at Bus Éireann’s Limerick Roxboro bus depot. The first 34 double-deck battery-electric buses are now in Limerick and have been piloted on a variety of routes in the city since February 2024.
In addition to the above, under the Sustainable Mobility Policy Pathfinder Programme, a fully electric town bus service, with 11 new single-deck battery-electric buses, is operating in Athlone.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of the national Public Service Obligation bus fleet. Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
