First Bus has announced that it is growing its electric vehicle partnership with broadband network provider Openreach. Following similar deals in Glasgow, the company will be one the first businesses in Aberdeen to plug into the shared infrastructure initiative from First.The initial phase of the partnership will see Openreach electric vehicles charging at the First depot in Aberdeen during the day while buses are in service, which Openreach says will enable engineers to cover more ground, reduce their environmental impact, and dedicate more time to the needs of their customers.
First Bus says it is keen to harness its electric vehicle infrastructure to help support local communities and businesses reach their own environmental aspirations. Commercial Director for First Bus Scotland Graeme Macfarlan said: “We are delighted to be extending this partnership with Openreach to Aberdeen so quickly after its launch earlier this year, demonstrating the power that comes from working together to reduce carbon emissions and improve the air quality in the communities we serve.
“As businesses across Scotland embark on the journey to electrify their fleets, it simply isn’t practical for every business to build its own charging infrastructure. We understand these challenges and are providing a smart solution that benefits the community and optimises space. It’s simple and effective – and everyone wins.
“At First Bus, we are committed to delivering cleaner, greener journeys across our UK networks, not only through our own fleet but by working in partnership with businesses such as Openreach. We’d love to attract more businesses to charge up using our kit whilst our buses are out on the road.”
Currently Openreach has more than 3,000 electric vehicles in its fleet, and is aiming to convert all its diesel fleet to zero emissions by 2031. Robert Thorburn, Openreach Scotland’s Partnership Director, said: “We’re thrilled to expand our exciting partnership with First Bus to Aberdeen. It means our local engineers can quickly charge our growing fleet of electric vehicles when they’re serving customers and building our full fibre network at pace. First Bus has made a massive investment in charging infrastructure and using their facilities optimises the charging capabilities for both our electric vans and their buses. Our engineers often live in flats or apartments where charging isn’t yet an option, so it makes the transition to electric easier for them too.
“It’s great to be working with First Bus to help drive this essential change.”
First’s Aberdeen depot has 16 rapid-charging points which will be available while its own electric fleet is out in service; the operator says it is interested in hearing from other businesses which wish to benefit from this partnership across its Glasgow Caledonia, Glasgow Scotstoun and Aberdeen sites.
