CILT(UK) Network Partners, VEV e-fleet solutions provider has announced the completion of Stagecoach’s electric bus hub at its Chesterfield depot.

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.

Working closely with Stagecoach, VEV said has provided comprehensive support for its electrification strategy starting with detailed fleet and power analysis.

Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV said: “The completion of the Chesterfield depot is the first deliverable in our relationship with Stagecoach to support both their strategic and operational goals on fleet electrification.”

Additional charger installations followed as well as, staff training, 24/7 operational assistance, and generating insights on Stagecoach’s electric fleet operations.

Mike added that this operational support is “to ensure a successful transition of the bus network to electric vehicles.”  

The Chesterfield 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.

It received partial funding through the government’s ZEBRA 2 scheme and was further funded by Derbyshire County Council and Stagecoach itself.

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.

“We look forward to replicating this success with VEV at our other Leamington, Nuneaton and Rugby sites, Tony added.

The depot infrastructure features 27 dual DC 120kW chargers manufactured by Eko Energetyka, providing 54 charging sockets, and a 2.5MVA power upgrade.

A solar installation of 234kWp is currently under construction at the site, with rooftop solar panels which is expected to generate approximately 200MWh of power annually at roughly half the cost of grid electricity.

According to VEV, this renewable energy integration is estimated to save 48 tonnes of carbon per year while reducing demand on the grid and associated energy costs.