Montgomery County Leads the Way in Green Transit Innovation
Key Ideas
  • Montgomery County, Maryland, is building the largest renewable-energy-powered transit depot and microgrid in the nation, featuring solar arrays, electric bus chargers, battery storage, and on-site green hydrogen production.
  • By 2035, the depot aims to accommodate 200 zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, contributing to the County's goal of reaching a 100% reduction in carbon emissions.
  • The project, led by AlphaStruxure, showcases an Energy as a Service model that allows the County to achieve sustainable transit without upfront costs and supports local communities through job opportunities and cleaner air.
  • The microgrid infrastructure will ensure uninterrupted service for constituents during power outages and emergency situations, while reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 4,000 metric tons per year.
Montgomery County, Maryland, is pioneering green transit innovation with the construction of the David F. Bone Equipment Maintenance and Transit Operations Center, set to be the largest renewable energy-powered transit depot and microgrid in the United States. The project, developed through an Energy as a Service model by AlphaStruxure, will integrate solar arrays, electric bus chargers, battery storage, and on-site green hydrogen production. By 2035, the depot plans to house 200 zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, aligning with the County's target of achieving a 100% reduction in carbon emissions. This groundbreaking initiative enables the County to operate independently in 'island mode,' providing sustainable and resilient power for its transportation network. Through the utilization of green hydrogen, the project aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, equivalent to powering 780 homes annually. Moreover, the microgrid will support cleaner air and less congestion along the Bus Rapid Transit network, benefiting minority and low-income riders. The innovative microgrid infrastructure not only advances environmental goals but also creates new career prospects for underserved communities through a County apprenticeship program. By remaining fully operational during construction, the depot ensures uninterrupted transit services, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable development and efficiency. The integration of 5.65 MWDC solar generation, 2 MW/6.88 MWh battery storage, electric bus charging capacity, and a 1 MW hydrogen electrolyzer underscores the project's comprehensive approach to green transit. This initiative signifies a remarkable stride towards a cleaner, more sustainable future in public transportation while setting a national standard for environmental leadership.
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