Commercial, Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions  -  October 31, 2024

County Connection Deploys ZEV Fleet

County Connection received $15.9 million from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) to fund the Solar Supported Zero Emission Vehicle Fleet and Service Modernization Project. 

The project proposes installing 90,000 square feet of solar panels and a microgrid battery storage facility to support the acquisition of future zero-emission buses (ZEBs) that will replace outdated diesel-powered buses. 

In 2023, County Connection’s board of directors adopted a plan to transition to a fully zero-emission bus fleet in accordance with California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations requiring all new buses purchased after January 1, 2029 to be zero-emission vehicles. 

The initial phase will focus on acquiring 27 additional ZEBs that will replace diesel buses. Projections anticipate a reduction of 40,372 metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTCO2e).

The funding will not only support critical infrastructure upgrades at the main bus depot in Concord but will also enhance the facility’s resilience against future power grid disruptions. The on-site solar power generation and battery storage will significantly lower emissions, reinforcing County Connection’s commitment to a sustainable future. 

The project is estimated to cost $48.9 million in total. This grant award will leverage additional state and federal funds. 

“This funding will strengthen the foundation of our zero-emission programs and commitment to ensuring safe, reliable and clean public transportation for our Contra Costa residents,” said Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City council member and the chairman of County Connection board of directors, in a statement.