RIPTA Debuts 33 Solar-Powered Buses

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority's new fleet of buses will use solar energy to cut down on costs and extend their battery life, the department announced Monday. the 33 new buses will replace older buses that are being retired.

"Equipping our RIPTA buses with solar systems is proof that smart investments in renewable energy benefit both the environment and our economy," Governor Gina Raimondo said. "This program not only supports a cutting-edge clean technology company in Warwick, but will help make commuting with RIPTA a more energy efficient option for riders. I look forward to continuing to make Rhode Island a leader in clean energy."

The technology, provided by Warwick-based company eNow, uses solar energy to optimize the battery life of the buses, making them more reliable when they are started and straining the alternator less during the day. Lightweight solar panels are installed on the roof of the buses.

The new buses were partially funded by a $42,800 grant from the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, which covered about two-thirds of the cost.

"It’s been great working with eNow on this project," said RIPTA's CEO, Soctt Avedisian, "and we’re very grateful to the Commerce Corporation for making funds available that help us save energy, time and money. This project is a win on many levels — we are working with the state to introduce alternative energy sources into public transit, we’re partnering with a Rhode Island company, and we’re collecting data that will be helpful to others in the transit industry."

According to RIPTA, the improved battery life and performance will save more than $80,000 annually.

Avedisian said the department is looking into installing the panels on more buses in the future. Each weighs about 19 pounds and is approximately the thickness of several credit cards stacked on top of each other.