GovWire

The low emission bus scheme aims to benefit local authorities, bus operators and passengers with zero emission buses. The trial period was monitored over 12 months.

It involved gathering data on refuelling, recharging and distance travelled by low emission buses. With these findings, it was compared with energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to calculate the difference between electric and diesel buses.

We found GHG savings can be achieved by improving energy efficiency and decarbonising fuel or energy sources. The report found electric buses:

• used up to 70% less energy than diesel
• reduced GHG emissions by up to 70%
• are the most energy efficient all low emission bus vehicles

The report also concluded compressed natural gas buses:

• used more energy than diesel buses
• increased GHG by up to 7% when using natural gas
• reduced GHG by 80% when using biomethane

We also found diesel hybrid buses were more efficient than non-hybrid diesels, and hydrogen fuel cell buses used less energy than diesel buses.