Busways Penrith aims to produce over 150,000 kWh of solar power annually with the installation of their new 99.75KW solar power plant.

This amount of power is the equivalent reduction in C02 emissions achieved by 1,754 trees growing to 10 years old or reducing petrol use by 45,000 litres annually.

The solar panels are REC Twinpeak series panels, an emerging technology that minimises losses across the array. It was installed by 24 Hour Solar Power as Busways moves towards more energy efficient depots.

“When you look at the statistics behind solar panel energy and how much more efficient and sustainable they are for the environment, it was an easy decision to install them,’ Managing Director of Busways, Byron Rowe, said.

“As a business we have a responsibility to do whatever we can for the environment and the sustainability of our planet.”

“Our operations, like all businesses, have an environmental impact. We’re constantly looking at more ways where we can reduce this impact.

“We already use recycled water and water tanks at our depots as well as LED and sensor lights. Adding solar to the list is just another step in the right direction.

“We also recently introduced stringent Euro 6 vehicles into our fleet with low-emission diesel engines which achieved a 75% reduction in emissions compared with previous buses which is a great feat.”

Busways is also participating in government exploration of a zero emissions bus trial.