The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) will invest C$165 million (US$124.17 million) to support the city of Calgary, Alberta, in its efforts to purchase 259 zero-emission buses by 2027.
The buses will be one-for-one replacements of diesel buses and will serve Calgary Transit routes. CIB says its investment will help accelerate the zero-emission transit of Calgary Transit’s fleet by covering the higher upfront capital costs of the bus purchases.
“We are proud to partner with the city of Calgary to help increase access to sustainable, modern public transportation. By investing C$165 million towards 259 zero-emission buses, the CIB is accelerating Calgary's path to net-zero and is enabling cleaner public transportation for future generations,” said CIB CEO Ehrin Cory.
Calgary has a goal to achieve net-zero emission by 2050 as outlined in its 2022 Calgary Climate Strategy.
“It is important for Calgarians to know that in making the switch from diesel to electric, the savings in operations will actually cover the cost of the loan,” explained Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “When it comes to climate change, we are committed to bold moves that are both economically and environmentally sustainable.”
Calgary is preparing to begin an electric vehicle pilot program. The city selected Vicinity Motor Corp. to provide its initial 14 battery-electric shuttle buses and Burns & McDonnell to supply, design and install the electric bus charging station infrastructure. ABB will supply the charging station for the pilot program with a capacity to charge 28 buses.
“The partnership with the Canada Infrastructure Bank enables us to kick-start the transition of our public transit fleet from diesel to alternative fuels. It will help us lower our environmental impact while continuing to provide the service Calgarians expect,” said Calgary Transit Director Sharon Fleming.
