Aurora Utilities, an independent electricity network operator, has activated a series of grid connections to support the expansion of Stagecoach’s electric bus infrastructure across the UK.
Aurora has energised 17 sites for Stagecoach as part of a wider programme to introduce zero-emission vehicles into the company’s fleet. The newly connected depots are located in towns and cities including Aldershot, Barking, Cheltenham, Dundee and Exeter.
The intend to provide capacity for around 1,330 electric buses, representing more than 16 percent of Stagecoach’s UK fleet. This rollout is expected to reduce carbon emissions by tens of thousands of tonnes each year.
Aurora is responsible for adopting and operating the new electricity connections required to run high-capacity charging systems, allowing for connections to be delivered at scale across multiple locations.
Several of the connected depots are in London, including Ash Grove, Bow and Bromley. These sites form part of the capital’s broader transport strategy, led by Transport for London, to move towards renewable energy use across public transport by 2030.
Tony Cockcroft, Asset Management and Infrastructure Director at Stagecoach, said:Electrifying our nationwide depots is critical to delivering a modern, sustainable public transport network. Aurora’s expertise as an IDNO has allowed us to accelerate new connections, and get more electric buses on the road sooner, lowering our emissions and benefiting the communities we serve through more reliable services.
In addition to vehicle electrification, Stagecoach is investing in battery storage and on-site solar generation at some depots to manage energy use and reduce reliance on the wider grid.
Aurora, which received its licence from Ofgem in 2024, is backed by investment from infrastructure firm I Squared Capital. The company works with transport operators, developers and public sector organisations to deliver electricity connections for projects linked to decarbonisation.
Simon Reilly, CEO of Aurora, said:Stagecoach is moving at pace to decarbonise its fleet, and we’re proud to be energising the infrastructure that makes that possible. Each new connection brings hundreds of zero-emission buses closer to reality on UK roads. Our team’s experience and strong relationships with network operators mean we can deliver faster, smarter grid solutions that turn net zero ambitions into operational progress.
