Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Microgrid, Energy Storage and Solar Infrastructure

Описание: VTA is piloting a cutting-edge solution that will manage operation,
charging and energy consumption of electric buses while
reducing the impact on the state’s electricity grid. In our electric
bus modeling completed by the National Renewable Energy
Lab (NREL), it was determined that a “Microgrid” solar energy
generation and energy storage system could be used to both offset
electricity cost and impact on the electrical grid, and support any
potential emergency power requirement.

VTA’s fleet currently includes 5 American-made Proterra electric
buses, with another 5 on order for delivery in 2019.

Benefits:
VTA Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) program will help meet California’s
ambitious goal of 1.5 million zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) on
California roadways by 2025, and VTA’s goal to have 30% ZEB by
2030. Through the National Renewable Energy Lab, VTA’s project
results will also inform transit agencies across California preparing
for similar goals. Depending on the bus charging plan and new rate
plans for 2020, we could see a 25% impact in our incremental ZEB
power consumption.

To expand our electric bus infrastructure to include an additional
500 kWh to 800 kWh of solar, intelligent microgrid controller, 5 MW
of energy storage which could be integrated into our existing and
new electrical substation at the Cerone bus yard.

Contributors:
Prospect Silicon Valley, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
(NREL), Charge Point, Proterra, Clever Devices, PG&E, and
Bay Area tech companies.

What is next:
The Cerone yard currently has 960 KWH of solar we are looking to
expand the solar footprint and add 5.0 meg watts of energy storage to understand and prove the impact and benefits to charging, cost and emergency response.