As the world continues to grapple with the urgent need for sustainable transportation solutions, companies like MTRWESTERN are taking bold steps toward electrification. As the first bus operator in the U.S. to run a fully electric bus on an intercity route, we’re committed to leading the charge in transitioning our fleet to electric buses. It’s a journey that holds promise, challenges, and invaluable lessons. Here, I’m excited to share five key insights and lessons we’ve gleaned in the early stages of this significant fleet transition.
Lesson #1: Embrace Collaboration
One of the first lessons we learned on our journey to electrification is the power of collaboration. From government agencies to non-profit coalitions and industry partners, building strong relationships has been essential. Engaging with local municipalities and climate advocacy groups (such as Western Washington Clean Cities Coalition, Columbia-Willamette Clean Cities Coalition and Climate Solutions) has helped us navigate regulatory frameworks and access incentives and grants for both electric buses and charging infrastructure.
Additionally, partnering with leading manufacturers and technology providers ensures we have access to cutting-edge solutions and ongoing support as we integrate electric buses into our fleet.
Lesson #2: Invest in Infrastructure
Transitioning to electric buses requires more than just purchasing new vehicles. It also entails significant investments in infrastructure to support charging needs. We quickly realized the importance of strategic planning and the imperative role of government-backed investment and support in charging infrastructure with organizations such as Seattle City Light. This includes identifying optimal locations for charging stations, upgrading electrical systems, and implementing smart charging solutions to optimize energy usage and minimize costs.
Full capital investment into charging infrastructure by private enterprise is simply unrealistic and needs to continue to be met with enhanced grants or outright government investment. Proactive government investment in infrastructure now means we’re laying the foundation for a seamless transition to electric buses while maximizing operational efficiency and sustainability.
Lesson #3: Maximize Utilization of Renewable Energy (R99) Infrastructure
We quickly recognized and fully embraced the importance of maximizing the use of renewable energy sources, such as R99, as a bridge to fleet transformation. R99, an innovative biofuel derived from renewable resources, presents a valuable opportunity to minimize our carbon footprint and reduce operating costs.
Washington State has been making significant strides in promoting renewable energy adoption through various initiatives, such as the Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA) and the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). These policies set ambitious targets for increasing the use of renewable energy in the state’s electricity supply, providing a solid foundation for us to tap into clean energy sources like R99.
Similar to Washington State, Oregon has been proactive in promoting renewable energy adoption and reducing carbon emissions through a range of policies and incentives via the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), established in 2007. In addition to helping bridge the gap to electric transformation (MTRWESTERN has benefitted from charging infrastructure grants from Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality), Oregon is spearheading R99 implementation with a cost effective Clean Fuels Program.
By harnessing the power of R99 and other renewable energy sources, we’re not only reducing our environmental impact but also driving innovation and paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Lesson #4: Prioritize Training and Education
As with any new technology, transitioning to electric buses requires a learning curve for drivers, maintenance technicians, and operations staff. Investing in comprehensive training and education programs has been critical to ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the performance of our electric fleet.
From hands-on training sessions to online courses, we’re empowering our team with the knowledge and skills they need to operate and maintain electric buses effectively. By prioritizing training and education, we’re fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within our organization while ensuring the long-term success of our electrification efforts.
Lesson #5: Perfect is the Enemy of Good
Perhaps the most important lesson we’ve learned on our journey to electrification is the importance of staying flexible and adaptive in the face of uncertainty and complexity. You cannot be afraid to fail…fast. Failing fast is a necessity to identify system failures early and make strategic corrections.
From evolving regulatory requirements to advancements in technology, the landscape of electrification is constantly evolving. By remaining agile and responsive, we’re able to quickly adapt to changing conditions, seize new opportunities, and overcome obstacles along the way. Whether it’s adjusting our strategy in response to market trends, finding new partnerships, fine-tuning our operations based on feedback from drivers and passengers, or sharing our challenges and successes on this path to electrification, flexibility is key to success in the transition to electric buses.
In conclusion, the journey to electrification for a bus operator is not without its challenges, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By embracing the and learning from the lessons above, we’re laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future. At MTRWESTERN, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this electrifying transition, and we look forward to continuing to lead the way toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
~Jeremy Butzlaff
MTRWESTERN, President
