The influence of shifting the electric bus charging routine on the techno-economic performance of a solar-powered bus depot

Electric buses consume a considerable amount of energy during charging, which inevitably increases the maximum demand (MD) on a system. We have therefore developed a model to investigate the technoeconomic feasibility of solar energy for an electric bus depot. The influence of the bus charging routine (BCR) on the techno-economic performance of solar PV systems was investigated. After applying the BCR, results from simulation software provided the optimal hybrid grid-connected PV (GCPV) system of 850 kWp capacity. The cost of energy (COE) and net present cost (NPC) for this system are 0.434 MYR/kWh and 13.3 million MYR, respectively, notably lower than the existing conventional grid system (0.48 MYR/kWh and 14.7 million MYR, respectively). This optimised system significantly reduces the MD by 450 kW and CO2 emission by similar to 38% per year. The configuration based on 850 kWp was designed and sized using design software to deliver 3.19 kWh/kWp of energy per day, and to provide a performance ratio (PR) of 82%. Overall, the GCPV system with the BCR is the most feasible option in techno-economic terms, which can reduce the operational cost and carbon emissions in order to develop sustainable transport throughout the region and beyond. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A study was conducted on the techno-economic feasibility of using solar energy for an electric bus depot, with the conclusion that implementing a bus charging routine can significantly reduce operational costs and carbon emissions, providing an optimal energy-saving solution.