Biogas - the natural choice for city buses

Extension stage 2013-2014

”Biogas is pretty close to the ideal fuel” Lars Magne Nerheim, professor, Bergen University College

The journey to cleaner public transport continues Cleaner public transport in the Baltic Sea Region is an effective measure to mitigate climate change, but also to improve air quality on a local scale, especially in cities. Introducing biogas as fuel together with hybrid electrical technologies is the natural choice for public transport buses. In addition, locally produced biogas can be part of building sustainable communities and of securing fuel supply.

organisations have worked together in the Baltic Biogas Bus project to further develop and share the opportunities for introducing biogas as fuel for public transport in more cities valuable cooperation, the Baltic Biogas Bus project has come eco-driving, hybrid biogas buses and biogas upgrading and is described in this report. I truly hope that the project will be an inspiration for repli-

Contents

cation in other Baltic cities and regions. The project partners represent organisations from almost all the Baltic Sea Region countries and are eager to help you on that road. On behalf of all partners, I welcome you to contact us on biogas and clean

1. Introduction

3

2. Increasing biogas supply

5

in each country and all project reports on the project website www.balticbiogasbus.eu.

9 4. Strategic planning & action plans

17

5. Regional cooperation to increase impact

19

constructive participation in this project.

6. Demonstration projects changing the scene

25

Västerås, Sweden, January 2015

7. Project partners

29

Lastly, I would like to thank the project partners as well as other attending players and stakeholders for their active and

Peter Liss Lead partner of the Baltic Biogas Bus extension stage

Lennart Hallgren Project Manager, Baltic Biogas Bus

Geert Schaap Project Manager, Baltic Biogas Bus

2

1. Introduction

Towards climate neutral public transport The aim of the Baltic Biogas Bus project is to reduce environmental impact from public transport by reducing carbon footprint, noise and air emissions. This is done by demonstrating hybrid biogas buses, eco-driving as well as biogas production and upgrading in eight countries in the Baltic Sea Region.

Project achievements & deliverables

Strategy for implementation of biogas Life Cycle Cost Analysis for biogas buses Tartu City transport plan including biogas

Region Programme (eu.baltic.net). The strategic objective of

Support cities to set up a strategy for introduction

the programme is to make the Baltic Sea Region an attractive

of biogas buses

place to live, work and invest in by promoting regional deve-

Strategy, policy and action plan manual

lopment through transnational cooperation between eleven countries. By piloting new or adapted solutions, the project aims at strengthening the business case of biogas for public ducing total greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020

Supply of biogas Desk top study on biogas production options and production potential scenarios Lessons learned from biogas production Overview of biogas production from different types

Clean Power for Transport Strategy and the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Directive.

of sources

Distribution of biogas Baltic Sea Region biogas infrastructure overview

life show cases followed by evaluations, studies and dialogue processes to increase knowledge and ensure sharing of the lessons learnt. The project partner group has provided a pan-Baltic context for the project investments, monitoring and evaluation, thereby allowing for both technological and administrative solutions to be adapted to a broader market. out as particularly critical for the biogas bus business case: The upgrading of biogas to fuel quality, i.e. fuel supply

Integrated regional distribution infrastructure planning Analysis of fuelling system alternatives Design of new bus depots and adaptation of existing depots for biogas buses

Use of biogas Biogas bus use operational experiences Review of vehicle technology developments Feasibility studies to introduce biogas buses in

These two issues have been the focus of the extension stage project. An upgrading facility, demonstrating the potential of biogas fuel production, has been developed and tested in

Laboratory biogas bus emission measurement

Poland. A socio-environmental-economic analysis illustrating wider analysis regarding strategic planning to introduce more biogas buses.

Upgrading of biogas Small scale biogas upgrading facility in Poland Social-environmental-economic analysis on biogas

technological as well as an operational approach. The project

as fuel in Poland

features investments in two different biogas-electric hybrid the use of fuel, so called eco-driving support systems have

Hybrid electric biogas buses in Västerås, Sweden,

been installed accompanied by training of bus drivers.

and in Bergen, Norway

This report summarises the experiences and lessons learned, with particular focus on the extension stage investments. All reports and outputs are available at the project website www.balticbiogasbus.eu.

4

2. Increasing biogas supply

Biogas production plant in Västerås, Sweden.

2.

Biogas - part of the sustainable eco-cycle A basic prerequisite for introducing more biogas supply of fuel. The need to increase the biogas fuel supply is one of the focus areas of the Baltic Biogas Bus project’s extension stage. ject show that there is a high potential for increasing biogas production from traditional sources in the Baltic Sea Region, and that new sources of biogas are necessary to meet future and reliable fuel supplies is a prerequisite for introducing more biogas buses.

What is biogas and why use it? Biogas is a completely renewable energy source produced from household waste, sewage sludge, agricultural residues, biogas eco-cycle starts when waste is being produced. The waste is collected, pretreated and placed in an anaerobic digester where it is decomposed in a natural process for about one month.

In the combustion process methane is converted to CO2 and emitted to the atmosphere. Although CO2 is a greenhouse gas, it is a lot less potent than methane. All in all, when using fossil transport fuel and leaving potential biogas substrates for uncontrolled decomposition, both sources will contribute to the greenhouse effect. If instead biogas is produced and used as transport fuel, the direct emissions will be decreased substantially and the source of methane emissions will be eliminated. Locally produced biogas also improves energy Storage of ley crops used for biogas production in Västerås,

autonomy and creates jobs.

Sweden. From a chemical perspective, there is little difference

Upgrading of biogas

between biogas and natural gas. They both consist mainly of

The raw biogas produced from anaerobic digestion typically

methane (CH4). However, there is a big difference in the way

contains 55-65 percent methane and 35-45 percent carbon dioxide. It may also contain small and varying quantities of hydrogen sulphide, nitrogen, other gases and particles, and

organic waste in no more than a month. Hence, biogas is 100

water. Methane is the ”energy carrier” of the biogas and to

percent renewable, whereas natural gas is being depleted.

use it as vehicle fuel the methane content must be raised to more than 90 percent*. The purifying process is often re-

Substituting diesel or petrol with renewable biogas lowers

ferred to as upgrading. This results in enriched biomethane,

the emissions of greenhouse gases and particles substantially.

which may be compressed, distributed and used in vehicles.

Organic substrates left for uncontrolled decomposition will

Produced and used locally, for instance in public transport

lead to natural emissions of methane to the atmosphere. If

buses, biogas not only substitutes fossil fuels, but also plays

these materials are used for biogas production instead, the

an important part in a sustainable local eco-cycle of organic

methane is collected in a controlled manner and can be used

materials and nutrients.

as transport fuel. * The EU does not yet have a common standard for biogas used as vehicle fuel, although it is being discussed

6

2. As previously mentioned natural gas and biogas have the same

Impact at system level when upgrading biogas

main chemical component; methane. Hence, compressed

If biogas currently used for producing electricity or heat is upgraded to fuel quality instead, electricity and heat must be

widely used regarding methane used as vehicle fuel, be it renewable biogas or natural gas or any mixture of the two. buses that can be run on biogas. Biogas can be used for multiple purposes, but perhaps its greatest merit is replacing fossil fuels in the transportation sector. Biogas is produced in most countries in the Baltic Sea

produced from other sources. To ensure an environmentally sound energy supply at a system level, it is relevant to look at additional available renewable sources of electricity, heat heat such as solar power, wind power or geothermal heating are plenty, the renewable alternatives in the transportation sector are far more scarce. It is important to keep this in mind when assessing different alternatives and deciding on what route to take.

or electricity, for wich there are plenty of other applications standard and thereby increasing the biogas fuel supply may CO2 emissions and replacing fossil transport fuels. The Baltic Biogas Bus project has addressed this from several angles: Biogas potential in the Baltic Sea Region Sharing of experiences from biogas production

Biogas and hydrogen

Biogas re-fuelling at the Björknäs depot in Stockholm, Sweden.

Biogas distribution and fuelling Once the biogas has been produced and upgraded, it has to be distributed. At the end of the distribution line is the bus stage Baltic Biogas Bus project has also looked at the issues of biogas distribution and fuelling. The project has included reviews and studies of infrastructure planning, bus depots, distribution and fuelling system alternatives, mapping of biogas infrastructure, as well as the undertaking of biogas other regions. Through these reviews, the project provides an overview of available biogas distribution systems and techniques taking into account economic and environmental factors. A particular focus was a case study that was carried Stockholm Public Transport, SL. This study has provided useful references for cities, with the help of project partners, in the process of implementing biogas in public transport. More information and publications on these issues are found at the Biogas upgrading unit in Örebro, Sweden.

7

project website.

2. I

Showcasing increased biogas upgrading A transnational sharing of experiences has been an important part of the project. By showcasing biogas upgrading, the Baltic Biogas Bus partnership aims to lead the way to more biogas being upgraded and used as fuel in public transport buses.

referred to as biomethane, contains 95 percent CH4 and 4,4 percent CO2. The quality of the biomethane have been tested by refuelling powered by biomethane was made on a chosen city bus line. The bus operated without problems, which proves the high quality of the biomethane. The information obtained from

demonstrating the feasibility of biogas upgrading in Poland

bus ran a total distance of about 150 kilometer when powered

will also be a convincing business case for other cities and

by biomethane. An ambition is for the upgrading facility to be easy to manage

Previous evaluations show that possible sources of biogas in

In order to ensure the supply of electricity to the upgrading

Necessary infrastructure like this may obstruct easy transfer is considered to become an important future energy source

of the mobile upgrading facility to a new location though. However, other infrastructure is not needed and therefore allows changing the location of the facility in the case of user

provides an opportunity for reduced climate impact.

change. At present the upgrading system is ready for operation, but

temperature should be will be optimised over time so as to

The continued testing of the upgrading facility will consist of four steps. An optimisation of the process conditions is

system for this purpose as well. Research will be carried out on how to enhance the quality of the biomethane. Another

The small scale biogas upgrading system consists of two 20–feet

and siloxanes will also be conducted.

containers. The biogas is fed from several drain wells to the gas

2

produce biogas for approximately 15-20 years. The upgraded biogas is then fed to the second container, where it is compressed to a pressure of 25 MPa and pumped into the gas storage. From the storage, the biomethane is fed The prototype upgrading installations have a nominal hourly Inside one of the 20-feet containers of the upgrading unit. independent laboratory show that the upgraded biogas, often

8

3. Increasing biogas bus

Intercity biogas bus in Västmanland county, Sweden.

Biogas buses in the Baltic Sea Region Upgraded biogas has been used as fuel in buses for many years. Biogas is a completely renewable fuel that does not contribute to the global warming effect, but the use of biogas in buses needs further is the second focus area of the Baltic Biogas Bus extension stage project. Improving the biogas bus business case

Why hybrid and what does it mean? Hybrid vehicles uses two or more distinct energy sources. and the most common combination is an electric motor and parallel hybrid uses both power sources in parallel to provide acceleration, while a serial hybrid uses one source to provide acceleration and the other source to increase the power reserve.

buses propelled by an internal combustion engine. The biogas is stored in high pressure tanks, usually on the rooftop of the

ut on-board batteries

bus. The biogas buses are refuelled through either slow or done during the night while the buses are stationed at the depot.

the vehicle, which means a lower energy use per transport kilometre.

while serial hybrids are better suited for the stop-and-go can be found in the publication ”Technical requirements for biogas-fuelled bus design” on the project website. Another possible hybrid implementation is to use different electric motor and driveline is used to propel the bus, the other energy source could be used for heating and other A conventional CNG bus in Pärnu, Estonia. Biogas buses do not only contribute to lower net carbon diox-

on-board support systems. Approximately 50 percent of the total energy use of a bus during a cold winter’s day is used for purposes other than propelling it, especially heating.

ide emissions, but also improve inner city air quality thanks

More and more manufacturers are looking into different types

to low emissions of particles and nitrogen oxide. They also

of hybrid engine solutions mainly to cut emissions. The range

decrease the noise level in cities by being more silent than

of hybrid bus engine solutions from different manufacturers

conventional buses. Lower air and noise pollutions are es-

is expected to increase rapidly in coming years.

pecially important in urban areas, where these environmental qualities are often challenged and where many people are affected by the impacts. Improving inner city air quality and decreasing noise levels would therefore mean reducing

Showcasing biogas hybrid buses Combining upgraded biogas, possibly the cleanest renewable of the electric motor showcases greener, cleaner and more

One important aspect to further strengthen the business case Bus extension stage project investments have been made in two different biogas electric hybrid buses, which are tested, vehicles. That would make that a bus can drive further on the

showcased and evaluated in Bergen, Norway and Västerås, Sweden. By putting different hybrid implementations to the

greener. To address this issue the extension stage put focus

test, the Baltic Biogas Bus project will move one step further

on piloting new technical solutions for biogas hybrid buses

on the way to sustainable public transport solutions with

and eco-driving.

minimum impact on local environment and climate change.

10

In Bergen, Norway, a 24-meter newcomer made its way onto the streets in October 2014. The biogas

how to drive and operate the hybrid bus. During a study visit Bergen, and safety issues were deliberated.

Norway and is evaluated, tested and compared with a conventional articulated CNG bus. Skyss, the public transport authority in Hordaland County and

Bergen and several delegations have also visited Bergen to study the serial hybrid biogas-electric bus.

decided to invest in a serial hybrid biogas-electric bus. In Bergen buses are frequently exposed to uphill and downhill with a large number of stops, which require quick shifts in acceleration up to the regular speed. This makes the city an excellent test site for this type of series hybrid bus, which arrived on a freight ship from Belgium in October 2014. The 24 meter bi-articulated bus was delivered by Belgian bus manufacturer Van Hool. It is a completely new type of low pairing electric traction with a biogas engine, which powers a The bus also uses re-generation of brake energy. The biogas engine situated in the rear runs on a constant, optimised speed of approximately 2 200 rpm, which eliminates load the engine.

Mona Hellesnes, Deputy County Mayor in Hordaland County, in front of the newly arrived bus in the Bergen harbor area.

On the road emission measurments

The bus can be accessed through four doors, which minimises the time needed at each stop. The passenger capacity is 152

emissions from the bus and thanks to this project they are

(55 seated & 97 standing), which enables an increase in total

now equipped with the most advanced emission analysers and

bus line capacity. The driver seat is in a central position in a

necessary support devices. The aim is to compare the hybrid

separate cabin, which improves the work environment and

bus with conventional biogas buses through on-the-road

occupational safety for the driver. It promotes a partially new

emission measurement along a given route in Bergen. The

way of thniking about public transport buses.

ongoing study includes measurements on energy use and

Bus drivers of the bus operator Tide have been educated in

emissions of CO2 and NOX of the different buses. Integrating and analysing the results involves considerable work, because of the variations experienced in on-the-road conditions. The early results show that the emissions of NO and NO2 are extremely low. The fuel consumption of the hybrid bus is also low; more than 30 percent reduction compared to the outside the bus is also very low. So far, conclusions point to the hybrid bus as being comfortable, running quietly, clean

Further evaluations of the bus will also include the fuel consumption in summer and winter conditions, performance of the serial hybrid system and the range of the batteries. Feedback from passengers is also being collected ever since trips in Bergen, Ocotber 2014.

11

the hybrid bus started service on line 9 in December 2014.

The biogas-electric hybrid bus in Bergen, Norway.

Biogas-electric hybrid in Västerås, Sweden In Västerås, Sweden, apperances is deceiving. The battery, while the biogas is dedicated to on-board heating.

underneath the hood very much is different. This as 50 percent of the total energy input to a city bus. The

alongside conventional CNG and diesel buses.

separate biogas heating system thus lowers the pressure on the batteries during cold winters. By using biogas for heating, all of the battery capacity is dedicated to driving the bus,

Västmanland County and the city of Västerås in Sweden, has

keeping the bus’ range constant. Thus, this bus concept uses

invested in a hybrid bus from the Polish manufacturer Solaris.

the biogas heating system as an ”indirect” range extender,

The bus uses electric traction and the biogas is dedicated

enabling a relatively small battery, and consequently a higher

to onboard heating. The hybrid biogas bus was introduced in

passenger capacity.

Västerås with a media event in December 2014.

Evaluating and comparing bus performances

buses, operating the same routes during similar hours. The comparison gives a wider perspective on the environmental impacts and the cost-effectiveness of the hybrid bus. Previous experiences from VL show that fuel consumption of indicate that the new biogas electric hybrid bus is twice as

2

The driver seat with three large touch screens on the dash-

emissions. Another environmental

advantage with the hybrid bus is the lack of noise. The hybrid

board. people’s health due to city noise. The development of this type of new biogas electric hybrid application was carried out in close dialogue between Solaris

Drivers and technical staff at VL have participated in a

and VL. VL’s input on developing the heating system as well as

training course, including maintenance of the bus and how to

on adapting the bus’s functionality to Swedish conditions was

drive and charge it. The drivers appreciate it and consider sharper than conventional buses. Some of the drivers even

try out new applicaitons and new areas of use for the biogas.

compare driving the hybrid biogas bus to driving a tram. In the further evaluations of the hybrid bus, focus is on the maintenance costs as well as the driveline, battery capacity

system. The bus’ seating capacity is 31 passengers along some

and charging technologies. As in Bergen, feedback from the

additional standing passengers.

public will be collected as well.

”We must remain at the forefront of technological development” Tommy Levinsson, chairman of the Public Transport Board, Västerås

13

Full page picture!

The hybrid bus in Västerås, Sweden.

can follow up driving behaviour, fuel use, fuel savings, cost

Biogas Bus project as a way to increase the energy

reductions and emission reductions. Some companies have chosen to use the data reports as basis for bonus rewards to

money and the environment. Eco-driving in biogas buses also maximizes the use of biogas as vehicle fuel, improving environmental performance even further.

the best performing drivers. However, technology can only provide a helping hand. Commitment from the drivers, spurred on by information and incentives from company management, is what really ma-

What is eco-driving? The purpose of the eco-driving concept is primarily to save

throughout all parts of the implementing organisation.

fuel in order to reduce emissions. But saving fuel also, of

Piloting eco-driving in the Baltic Sea Region

course, saves money.

The lead partner of the Baltic Biogas Bus project, Västerås provides an example for others to follow. VL has installed a

Plan ahead and try to avoid unnecessary stops

all its buses, and has appointed a former driver as full time

at low rpm

eco-driving coach. Furthermore, part of the money saved by reduced fuel consumption is paid back to the drivers through

Stay within speed limits - you do not loose time

of buses run on biogas and indications are that eco-driving makes an even bigger difference to biogas buses than diesel buses.

fuel for no good

In addition to saving fuel, eco-driving in buses has also shown to reduce noise and give a smoother and safer ride, to the shown to reduce wear and tear of the vehicles, thereby degas buses, but conserving fuel is even more important when supply is scarce. This is often the case for biogas.

in actual vehicles, promise fuel saving potentials of up to 25 percent. However, effects of the training tend to decrease over time. Field studies indicate that 5-10 percent is a more

Frans Einarsson, eco-driving coach at VL, in a CNG bus in

realistic outcome, and continuous follow-ups are necessary

Köping, Sweden.

to maintain the new style of driving long-term.

Technology as a helping hand

operational experiences of biogas bus use in Stockholm, -

back to the driver, guiding her or him to pursue energy efbiogas quality are discussed and the results show how the new behaviour. The system does not force the driver to drive

performance of buses combined with the improved know-

differently though; it only assists the driver to pursue new

ledge among operating personnel have made bus use more

habits. The data on driver performance can also be used to give feedback and coach the drivers to become even better.

15

publications on the project website.

The Baltic Biogas Bus extension stage features investments in eco-driving support equipment in Poland and Lithuania. By showcasing more energy

eco-panel giving the driver instant feedback with a green, yellow or red light depending on driver behaviour. The data is collected and compiled into weekly reports for further evaluation and driver feedback.

improve the environmental performance of public transport in the Baltic Sea Region.

The initial reactions differed. Some drivers felt that it was thought the eco-panel could be of great help, really making

needed knowledge and experience on eco-driving to all other

them think twice and supporting them while handling the

partners. The partners jointly prepared the basis for pro-

bus. The implementation continues and hopefully the results

curing the support systems, but the procurements were done

are good enough to justify a full-scale investment later on.

by each respective partner. The whole process was monitored and discussed by the entire partnership. The scope of the

Lithuania

eco-driving activites and previous experiences, has also been

Kauno Autobusai has invested in ten units from the Swedish

discussed and disseminated at events and seminars during the extension stage project. Polish partner MTI and Lithuanian partner Kauno Autobusai have invested in a number of units to be tried and tested. However, since the investments only cover up to 10 units, this is not a full-scale test and the results and experiences must

operating in Kaunas and 30 drivers has undergone training during a 3-week period, learning the basics of eco-driving and pointing the eco-driving essentials, translated to Lithuanian, was also put in all buses.

be viewed accordingly. In parallell to this, bus operator Tide in Bergen, Norway, (awarded the contract by Skyss) has tested and evaluated different eco-driving support system alternatives. Tide is now in the process of full-scale implementation in all the buses in shared with the Baltic Biogas Bus partners.

Poland MTI have invested in eight eco-driving support units from

gone through training, learning the basics of eco-driving and

Lithuania.

the functionality of the system. The installation features FMS gateways collecting and transferring data as well as the Saga

code. The system gateway collects data, which is presented to the driver in real-time and saved for later reference. Data reports are also available online in a ”cloud service”. Initially most driver reactions were positive and supportive. Many of the drivers felt the eco-driving scheme was familiar, but not always possible to maintain in every day workings under the pressure of time schedules. But by collecting data and presenting it in real-time on the driver console it could be a reminder and a powerful way of promoting a partially new style of driving. Many drivers, however, also pointed to the fact that some motivational system for the drivers should be in place, to ensure that the implementation is done with

The Saga eco-panel in a CNG bus in Tychy, Poland.

long-term persistence.

16

4. Strategic planning and action plans

Drivers for biogas bus implementation Effective implementation of biogas buses and biogas fuel supply systems requires coherent longterm strategic planning, policies and action plans. The Baltic Biogas Bus project has analysed how more biogas buses can be introduced in public transport systems.

investigations show that initial subsidies can be a useful tool for propelling investments in producing biogas for public transport.

Socio-environmental-economic biogas analysis The possible gains of using biogas as vehicle fuel compared to using it for other purposes, to a very high extent depend on

The Baltic Biogas Bus project has reviewed and analysed key issues to consider during the process, from the development of a shared vision, to the adaptation of strategies and the

local circumstances. Substituting fossil transport fuels with biogas provides important socio-economic and environmental gains, which might be diffucult to asses and quantify though.

implementation of concrete action plans regarding biogas

Following on the investment made in a small-scale upgrading

buses and biogas fuel supply systems. The work has resulted

unit in Poland, made possible by the Baltic Biogas Bus project,

in publications, workshops and seminars, together increasing

a desktop study focusing on the socio-environmental-

the shared knowledge on: Strategies, policies, manuals, and action plans on how to

The full report is available at the project website.

introduce biogas buses in public transport

-

Impacts from regulation and taxation on biogas use Life cycle cost analysis Typical key drivers for introducing biogas in public transport buses are considerations of climate change, peak oil, inner

well as other possible energy sources for different purposes. use of biogas to replace fossil energy sources and the use of

city air quality, reliability of fuel supply and increased need for clean public transport. Other factors, such as regional infrastructure development, local employment opportunities and sustainable waste management, are often considered added values when evaluating the option of biogas.

Turning waste into clean renewable fuel captures CH4 and NO2 emissions form the organic materials, and replaces fossil fuels, which reduces green house gas emissions substantially. The green house gas emissions are reduced further by using

For a successful biogas bus implementation, the best available techniques should be used. Long-term contracts between user and supplier of the biogas need to be in place to allow for the necessary investments and to anticipate for goals combined with communication and awareness raising shown to be strong support mechanisms in successful biogas projects.

project clearly show the importance of long term political will at local level to introduce biogas as transport fuel. It is of utmost importance to set up long term sustainable the establishment of contracts between users and suppliers, the necessary upfront investments are unlikely to take place. Along with local and regional political will, national policies are very important. The regulatory framework, including for example tax regulations or exemptions and subsidies, to a

biogas upgrading and the use of biogas in the transportation emissions of particles. This is especially important in urban areas with high population density, where cleaner air means less exposure to different pollutants, which affects peoples health and the cost of health care. Local production of clean fuel creates local job opportunities, both related to the actual biogas production and to different sub-contractors and suppliers, which affects local economic growth and improves the local tax base. Aside from substituting fossil fuels and creating jobs, locally produced clean transport fuel also means increased security is a way of reducing dependency on fuel exportiong nations and reducing storage of imported fuel.

very high extent determine what biogas will be used for. The

18

5. Regional cooperation to increase impact

5.

The contribution of the Baltic Sea Region programme has made it possible to implement innovative hybrid technology

experiences and new technologies, thereby achieving better results. The broad spectrum of partners involved in a transnational cooperation, provides the potential to acquire a complete picture of using CNG buses.

buses a competitive advantage. The funding also enabled the Polish Motor Transport Institute to acquire a mobile biogas upgrading installation that is being tested in Niepolomice in the south of Poland. The funding for minor investments in eco-driving systems for the buses of different partners has

-

established a platform for joint-learning and comparison of

ality, the networks in each country have included a variety of organisations with different perspectives, interests and expe-

the funding has been a very important driver for the partners to test new and innovative solutions to reach more sustaina-

of the project. The associated organisations have been clus-

ble public transport as well as improving air quality.

tered to biogas producers, infrastructure for gas distribution, bus operators and producers, local and regional transport

A prerequisite of the Baltic Sea Region programme is that

authorities, research and technology organisations as well as

all projects need partners from at least three Baltic Sea

stakeholders from policy and strategy level.

region countries to be eligible for funding. That has been a very positive incentive to convince partners to broaden their

Through the sharing of experiences, the project partners have been able to illustrate the importance of long-term political

many organisations it is considered to be beyond their scope

decisions and commitments when introducing biogas buses in

to put effort into activities outside its own region, not to

the public transport system of a city or region. Developing

mention outside its home country.

the production and distribution infrastructure, together with the investments in new vehicles, is much more likely to

This international cooperation made partners look at clean

occur if initial subsides can be acquired. As mentioned earlier,

public transport with new eyes, opened up fruitful discussions

tax regulations and other regulatory instruments also need to

and introduced new solutions. Partners have supported one

be in place to ensure a more advantageous business case.

another to implement innovative solutions, based on their

The increased knowledge and awareness on how to introduce

own experiences. The international partnership established is also a valuable contact network for future cooperation.

between the stakeholders involved and resulted in increased learning valuable experiences from one another and the

as well as the political agenda in several cities and regions.

as partners got to know each other as well as experiencing was earmarked for the investments in hybrid biogas electric

both differences and similarities in cultures and practices.

buses, the biogas upgrading installation and the eco-driving

This opens up for further cooperation between countries in

-

opportunities.

amount ranging from 15 to 50 percent.

”The collaboration between partners is one of the many positive results of the project” Oddmund Sylta, Managing Director of Skyss

20

5.

Showcasing regional cooperation Seminars, conferences and meetings

opportunity to discuss pathways to more sustainable public

The Balic Biogas Bus extension stage project was launched

transport systems with colleagues from other regions and

with a seminar and partner meeting in Riga, Latvia, on the 30 of September and 1 of October 2013. Among attendats th

st

were representatives of the Riga City Council and the Latvian Road Transport Administration. The seminar featured presentations and discussions on the up-coming activities and in-

countries. The response from the participants was very positive, as the trips led to an increased understanding of the political and technological processes turning cities and regions into biogas bus frontrunners, as well as inspiration on how public-private partnerships may result in low-carbon and

vestments in the extension stage project.

low-emission urban public transport solutions. Several of the

The sharing of experiences between the project partners has

the experiences to develop similar systems for waste to fuel

policy makers participating have expressed interest in using in their own cities and regions.

the extension stages of the Baltic Biogas Bus project have included regional seminars, workshops and conferences as well as study visits to biogas production plants and bus depots. During the extension stage, international events were organised in Riga (Latvia), Västerås (Sweden), Kaunas Politicians, other decision-makers and associated partners have been involved in the events to achieve maximum multiplier impact. These events have thus enabled decision-makers from around the Baltic Sea Region to discuss biogas bus developments. All project investments have been prepared, monitored and evaluated by the partner group as a whole in a pan-Baltic context to ensure the exchange of knowledge between different experts. Results and conclusions have been compared

Test trip in the brand new 24-meter hybrid bus in Bergen,

and exchanged throughout the Baltic Sea Region.

November 2014.

Media coverage & communication channels media, decision-makers and the general public have showed a lot of interest in the topics investigated by the Baltic Biogas Bus partners. Local, regional and national newsmedias in several countries have reported about the project scope and investments, transnational politicians’ biogas bus-trips, events and meetings. Discussions from meetings and events and the progress of investment activities in the project have been informed Study visit to the biogas plant in Västerås, Sweden, during the bus trip in December 2013.

Transnational politicians’ biogas bus trips Through the Baltic Biogas Bus project, bus-trips catering to interested politicians and decision-makers from the partner countries were arranged in Västerås, Sweden and in Bergen,

about in recurring newsletters and on the project website, which has attracted thousands of visitors. Along with articles in newspapers, broadcasting services, newsletters, website and different symposia, the project parternship has also used brochures, roll-ups, factsheets and showrooms to showcase and inform about the project scope, investments, results and experiences.

Norway. Several parts of the biogas-to-fuel value chain have been

Newsletters, presentations, reports and all other information

showcased. During the bus trips, decision-makers also took the

materials produced are available on the project website.

21

Seminars & events 2013-2014 Riga, Latvia, 30th October 2013 Västerås, Sweden, 12th December 2013 Bergen, Norway, 17th March 2014 Niepolomice, Poland, 2nd June 2014 Kaunas, Lithuania, 9th September 2014 th

November 2014

Bergen, Norway, 21st November 2014

22

Communicating project scope & results To promote and disseminate the scope and progress of the Baltic Biogas Bus project the partners have produced broschures, roll-ups and fact sheets, while also using newsletters and the project website for continous updates.

23

Press & media coverage News and notices about the project activities, events and investments have been featured in numerous different medias across the Baltic Sea Region. The complete list of articles is available on the website www.balticbiogasbus.eu.

Gasträff i Västerås pub licer a t a v U L O

S I DA F Ö R U T S KRI F T

11 DECEM BER 2 013

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

The Baltic Biogas Bus project is designed to stimulate the use of biogas as a fuel for city buses, with the aim of reducing the environmental impact.

Baltic biogas future

T

he world is facing an increased demand for transport of all kinds, but more and more people are also becoming aware of the transport’s impact on the environment and climate. Our transport systems and vehicles need to become more efficient and sustainable. At the same time, an increasing amount of people live and work in urban areas, which increases pressure on public transport systems to be accessible, safe and sustainable, resulting in a boosted interest in renewable biofuels. The Baltic Biogas Bus project and the extension stage, More Baltic Biogas Bus, aims to prepare for and showcase an increased, more energy cost efficient use of biogas as fuel in public transport buses as a way of minimising climate impact and reaching the EU 2020 targets.

from public transport city buses. One of the keys to success is long term, strategic and sustainable political decisions. But the project partnership also pointed to some areas, such as increased upgrading of biogas and improved energy efficiency in biogas buses, in need of further attention. The success of the project and the commitment from all partners opened the door to an extension stage project in 2013.

Even more biogas In June 2013, the More Baltic Biogas Bus (More BBB) project was approved. The partnership for the on-going extension consists of eight partners from the original project accompanied by the new lead partner Västerås Public Transport.

Renewable and clean Biogas is a completely renewable energy source and part of the natural ‘eco-cycle’. Upgraded and used as transport fuel, biogas not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also helps to improve inner city air quality through low emissions of particles and nitrogen oxide. Taking into account that biogas can be produced from household food waste and wastewater, a ‘resource’ in all urban areas, makes it very attractive to public transport.

Biogas around the Baltic Sea

136

Pan European Networks: Government 11

Maasing.

på biogas för kollektivtrafik möts intresserade av användning av Aktörer runt Östersjön som är Bus där Västerås Lokaltrafik (VL) en del av EU-projektet Baltic Biogas Lokaltrafik samt torsdagen i Västerås. Mötet är Sverige representeras där av Västerås och 2009 startade t Projekte är projektägare. Biogas Öst. och Litauen. Tyskland, Polen, Estland, Lettland I övrigt deltar aktörer från Norge, ring av biogas till fordonsbränsle i somras med fokus på ökad uppgrade s förlängde projektet liga Det ursprung hybridisering och sparsam körning. biogas som bränsle i bussar genom och en effektivare användning av gas-eltill bussbränsle att testas i Polen, småskalig uppgradering av biogas Inom ramen för projektet kommer körning för att spara bränsle testas i Bergen och Västerås, och sparsam hybridbussar upphandlas och testas . på flera orter runtom i regionen

DEPOT

OFFICE

2014-12-10

Nå skal denne bussen ut på veiene |

BA

The More BBB project is divided into two main components: increased upgrading of biogas to vehicle fuel quality; and more energy efficient use of biogas as fuel in public transport buses. To demonstrate these two aspects of biogas development, the project features several concrete investments in ‘green’ technology throughout the region.

The main stage Baltic Biogas Bus (BBB) project was initiated by Stockholm Public Transport and started in 2009. With a total of 12 partners from eight different countries, the project aimed to prepare for an increased use of biogas buses in the Baltic Sea region. Apart from the project partners, several biogas producers and distributors, bus suppliers and other bus operators participated and provided input and experiences. During the three-year project, biogas production potentials were investigated along with different options for, and experiences from, biogas distribution and fuelling, implementation and usage. A main project outcome is a manual on how to introduce biogas buses in public transport. The results and achievements were summed up in October 2012, concluding that biogas is the best choice available to lower emissions

Biogasbussar i Västerås. Foto: Ulo

EU energy efficiency

An intercity CNG bus in Vä stmanland County, Sweden

The EU has put increased efficiency at the top of the energy agenda. In 2012, the EU adopted a new directive to promote energy efficiency within the Union in order to ensure the achievement of the EU 2020 targets. This obliges all member states to encourage energy efficiency improvements in households, industries and transport sectors. The More BBB project targets end use of energy in public transport buses, where improvements in energy efficiency could be made in two principal ways: technological and operational. The technological approach, i.e. developing more energy efficient engines and drivelines, is perhaps the most obvious solution. But the operational approach, for instance, more energy efficient driving habits, has significant fuel saving potential at a relatively low cost and should not be overlooked.

www.paneuropeannetworks.com

Den nye maksibussen er 24 meter lang, og settes i dag inn på linje 9, fra Festplassen til Kronstad. Sjåførene forlenge lysintervallet Foto: ARNE utstyres med fjernkontroller, slik RISTESUND at de kan

Nå skal denne bussen ut på veien

I dag settes den nye superbussen Linda Nilsen

Linda Hilland

Profil E-post

Profil E-post

Publisert 08.12.2014 kl 09:41 Oppdatert

e

i rute. Sjåførene frykter sammenst øt med Bybanen.

08.12.2014 kl 09:42

I dag settes superbussen inn på busslinje 9, som går fra Festplassen til Kronstad. Den nye maksibussen er 24 meter lang. Derfor kan den ikke kjøre alle steder. Bakgrunnen for at linje 9 er valgt er at det er en enkelt og forholdsvis holdeplasser. strak og flat trasé

med få

Etter det BA kjenner til er flere i Tide bekymret for et eventuelt sammenstøt mellom maksibussen og Bybanen. bybanesporet på Kronstad for å komme Bussen skal krysse seg opp og ned busstoppet som ligger like utenfor døren ved den nye høyskolen. – Det er veldig mange potensielt farlige krysningspunkt langs traseen både mellom Bybanen, bussene, Rasmussen, hovedverneombud annen biltrafikk og gående, sier Arne i Tide. Han sier sjåførene har uttrykt bekymring. RISIKOANALYSE – Vi foretok derfor en risikoanalyse

av området fra Kronstad til Bjørnsons

gate, sier Rasmussen.

Han vil ikke gi detaljer om hvilke punkt som er mest utsatt, men sier sjåførene er spent på hvordan kjøringen kommer til å fungere. – Sjåførene er spesialtrent til å kjøre den lange bussen. Deres viktigste fokus er å holde trafikkreglene, senke de kjører, sier Rasmussen til BA. skuldrene og ta det med ro når

http://www.ba.no/nyheter/article7723361.e

ce 1/2

Första Solarishybriden i Sverige pub licer a t a v U L O

S I DA F Ö R U T S KRI F T

15 J AN U ARI 2 014

Solaris Urbino 12 Hybrid. Nu har

aren sålt sin första hybridbuss den framgångsrika polska busstillverk Bild: Solaris.

i Sverige.

den svenska marknaden. Det är har sålt sin första hybridbuss på Den polska busstillverkaren Solaris s Solaris Urbino, i stadstrafiken att testa en hybridbuss, en tolvmeter Västerås Lokaltrafik som kommer i Västerås. på den svenska marknaden. Västerås den första hybridbussen från Solaris Bussen är en el/biogashybrid och tet Baltic Biogas Bus. gssyfte i samarbete med EU-projek Lokaltrafik köper bussen i utvärderin Bussen har ett batteri med en kapacitet månad. r i trafik under septembe Bussen ska levereras i juni och sättas på 160 kWh. En speciallösning är att bussen får

örjning. två gastuber på taket till värmeförs

24

6. Demonstration projects changing the scene

6.

the partner countries are related to the introduction of

documents and training is mandatory for professional drivers. However, there is no standardised method on follow-up and

buses and increased upgrading of biogas to vehicle fuel. Through the Baltic Biogas Bus project the present situation and the future of biogas buses are enhanced in all of the partner countries.

continuous systematic follow-ups.

Sweden

Norway

There is a lively debate on climate, energy and sustainable transport in Sweden. The national parliament has set the

are 36 commercial production facilities for biomethane, and another 10 facilities are underway.

Along with striving towards fossil fuel independency, public transport stakeholders also aim to double the share of

The cities of Trondheim, Haugesund, Stavanger, Oslo and

travels by 2020. Sweden has had many years of increased biogas production and up-scaling the use of biogas for public

them are currently running on biogas, while the others are

transport buses and other vehicles. Taking part in the inter-

powered by natural gas. The Baltic Biogas Bus activities in

national dialogue, so as to ensure that the future directions

Bergen, testing and showcasing a brand new type of bio-

are corresponding with those of neighbouring countries will

gas electric hybrid bus, is followed closely and with great

be increasingly important for Swedish decision-makers.

interest by other cities in Norway who currently have conven-

There are a few initiatives in Norway that seek to promote and test electrical buses as well. Furthermore, hydrogen buses have been demonstrated in Oslo. Bergen is now looking at ways to expand the line using trolley buses and is considering different bus designs for this, including the serial hybrid biogas concept. An intercity biogas bus in Västmanland County, Sweden. Hybrid buses, and possibly pure electric buses, are seen as important parts of the solution for public transport in Sweden. Diesel-electric hybrids are the most common choice yet, although the numbers are still small. The Baltic Biogas buses by developing hybrid solutions are of great interest to Swedish stakeholders.

when comparing biogas with other solutions. Biogas buses have been in operation for 20 years but even so, not enough

such hybrids were put in operation in Malmö in June 2014

A CNG bus at ”Bryggen” in downtown Bergen, Norway.

and the electric bus with biogas heating delivered to Västerås

In Norway, eco-driving systems have been considered by the

started operating in December 2014.

public transport operators of a few cities. In Bergen, the bus

Purely electric buses are tested in several Swedish cities,

operator Tide has chosen to install the Saga system in all its

coming years a number of fast-charging plug-in hybrid buses will also be tested in Stockholm.

26

6. Estonia

Latvia

The increasing costs for public transport is a key driver for

In order to reduce the dependence of fossil fuels and legal framework has been developed to serve as the basis

reduced costs and improved environmental performance.

for the transition to green technologies in the transportation sector. The aim is a wider use of environmentally friendly

In 2014 there was no upgrading of biogas established in

types of vehicles. Matters of developing more sustainable

-

public transport are included in the development strategies

methane production. Regulations are being reviewed to allow

of all administrative districts and major cities of Latvia.

for production and distribution, and substantial state funds 2

In 2012 Latvia had 34 biogas production plants in the country,

quotas) are being set aside to support biomethane production biogas is mainly used for heat and electricity production. There is a nation-wide movement to support electro mobility Tallinn.

in Latvia, and the National electro mobility development plan 2014-2016, has been adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers. The plan addresses charging infrastructure and regulations, such as taxation systems to stimulate the electric vehicles market, and suggests the establishment of a coordinating institute for electro mobility in Latvia. Previous initiatives have included investment in charging infrastructure. Municipalities such as Riga already have, or are planning to purchase electrical vehicles. The public transport company Jurmala-SV is involved in a project whereby 10 city buses are adapted and rebuilt to a dual fuel mode based on biogas. Hybrid buses have already

Re-fuelling a CNG bus in Tallinn, Estonia. There are currently no hybrid or electric buses in use technology is reviewed with keen interest, and the City of following the next public transport tender. The Tartu City

Furthermore, hydrogen technology is also being considered as an option for Riga public transport.

Lithuania As part of the Baltic Biogas Bus project, Kauno Autobusai is testing eco-driving equipment in some of its buses in Kaunas

its disposal, and the city follows the development of electric

city. The knowledge about the possibilities of biogas as a fuel

buses closely.

for city buses gained from the project has been discussed at

At present, there are no known examples of full-scale eco-

a decision will be made whether to invest in a biogas upgrading project in Kaunas.

transport operator in the city of Tartu, tried eco-driving on diesel buses some years back. One reason for not pursuing it further may be that the system did not provide the necessary

city bought six new Solaris urbino hybrid buses and put them

real-time feedback to the drivers. After sharing the positive

in to service in September 2012.

making a second try using modern eco-driving devices in the buses. nine different cities in Lithuania in 2014. The Lithuanian company LBus has been producing electric buses since 2011.

27

6. Kauno autobusai, partner in the Baltic Biogas Bus project,

The advantages of using alternative fuels are also known by

has signed an agreement with the public transport company of Riga, Rigas Satiksme, regarding joint projects to achieve more sustainable public transport. And together with the company Vejo projektai, Kauno autobusai is developing a new generation of trolley buses for which electricity consumption is twice as low as for regular trolleybuses. The new trolley

and modern internal combustion buses are also seen to be a

bus should be tested in the Kaunas public transport system in 2015.

Germany research and development initiatives are ongoing. Research is also being carried out addressing possible pre-treatment of biogas substrates to increase and improve the biogas output from the plant.

promise potential fuel savings together with decreasing noise levels and emissions. One example is the Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr (VRR), which operates around 1 000 bus lines with Yesterdays and todays public transport buses on display in

approximately 4 million passengers daily. A total of 70 diesel

Kaunas, Lithuania. during 2009-2012. The experiences and conclusions were

Poland On a national level in Poland, targets for increasing the use of renewable resources, as well as targets on an increased use

mixed. Depending on the type of bus, the noise levels could be reduced by up to 12 dB and the public utility company received positive feedback. Also, nitrogen dioxide emissions

these goals, national societal, organisational and economic strategies have also been developed. There are many biogas production sources in Poland and the

e-solo bus was purchased from Bombardier, followed by an 18-meter articulated bus from Solaris.

stations. Though today, the biogas in Poland is mostly used using it in the transportation sector is a new phenomenon in Poland, but the increasing awareness on the potential use of renewable resources have led to a bigger interest in this,

An interesting example is the transport service provider

especially among researchers and municipal stakeholders. Another fact that indicates an increasing interest in developing the business case for biogas in Poland is the fact that Polish stakeholders have participated in several international projects on the subject. Biomaster was a project with the aim of introducing biomethane for transport and was co-funded

management system. The pilot project was carried out for six months and was very successful. Besides savings in fuel and attrition costs of approximately 6,5 percent, the project also resulted in increased security and improved comfort for both drivers and passengers. However, this good example seems implement similar eco-driving campaigns.

reports on opportunities and barriers of biogas production. The experiences gained in the Baltic Biogas Bus project are contributing and enhancing the knowledge on production, upgrading and use of biogas in transport, and will therefore be useful in the future developments in Poland.

28

7. Project partners

7.

Thirteen partners in eight countries Altogether, thirteen public transport companies, organisations, transport research institutes and cities in eight countries around the Baltic Sea Region, have participated as project partners in the main stage and extension stage Baltic Biogas Bus project. These are presented below. Through different work packages the participants are responsible for different aspects of the project within production, distribution and use of biogas as well as disseminating information, knowledge and experiences. Next to the name of the project partner, number 1 and/or 2 has been added to indicate whether the or the extension stage (2013-2014), or both stages of the Baltic Biogas Bus project.

www.biogasost.se

promoting biogas in mid-eastern Sweden. The aim is to promote and strengthen cooperation between different stakeholders throughout the biogas value chain, thereby

dialogue between different stakeholders, evaluates the market and promotes increased production, distribution and use of biogas.

has been to distribute results and knowledge gained by the project via its extensive network. During the extension stage and dissemination (work package 2), while also coordinating and evaluating the eco-driving activites.

www.sl.se public transport services in Västmanland County, Sweden, to an average of 35 000 costumers daily. One of VL’s goals is a 100 percent fossil free operation no later than 2020, and the main renewable fuel used in the

Stockholm Public Transport (SL) is the public transport service provider in the Stockholm region. On a normal weekday more

130 are powered by biogas. One of these is the new biogas

than 760,000 Stockholmers use the services and board

electric hybrid bus and the rest are diesel buses.

approximately 2,7 million times. During peak hours, almost 8 out of 10 travelers in the region use the metro, commuter trains, tramways or buses.

an average of 15 biogas buses. Three depots, in Sala, Köping and Västerås are adapted to serve biogas buses with fuel.

The system offers almost 34,000 daily trips on 2,300 buses

The fourth and last depot in Fagersta is also being adapted to

and 819 trains, serving 14,000 bus stops and 244 stations.

serve biogas buses. Together, in 2015, the depots will enable

One of SL’s goals is to provide a 100 per cent fossil free public

running biogas buses throughout the entire VL operating area. VL has been the lead partner in the extension stage of the

with renewables increases steadily. SL has used biogas fuelled

Baltic Biogas Bus project.

buses in the inner city services since 2004. Further biogas expansion of both depots and buses in the region will take place in the coming years.

Biogas Bus project.

30

7.

www.ruter.no

www.hogenergi.no

Ruter is Norway’s leading provider of public transport services and is responsible for public transport in the Oslo region. 285 million travelers use its services annually. that promotes key strategic energy issues with potential for industrial development, through building of alliances and project development in cooperation with government,

tramways, ferries and buses. The system provides more than

industry and research. The organisations’ areas of work span

3,6 million trips annually. One of Ruter’s goals is to provide a

from oil and gas to renewable energy. Members are regional

100 per cent fossil free public transport no later than 2020.

and R&D institutions.

using renewable fuels increase steadily. Ruter started using biogas fuelled buses in 2010, and by 2012 there were 87 biogas buses in the Oslo region.

learn from other partners’ experiences with the introduction of biogas in buses and to share their expertise on strategic business development within the gas sector.

Baltic Biogas Bus project with an ambition to learn more from the project and start using biogas buses in Oslo.

www.hordaland.no

Skyss is owned by Hordaland County Council. Skyss’s purpose is to plan, purchase and market public transport services. Contracts for the operation of bus routes and the Bergen lightrail system (Bybanen) are awarded to transport providers via competitive tendering. Skyss is responsible for planning itineraries, developing ticket systems, information and marketing.

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is an impartial expert organisation and its research covers a broad range of is the leading research institute in the Nordic countries. The focus of the research is on reducing exhaust emissions as well as energy use and its negative impact. The entire chain from fuels and engines to various emission control technologies is

project and helped to organise regional seminars focusing on biogas as transport fuel. During the extension stage, Skyss has stimulated manufacturers to innovate and further develop the biogas serial hybrid technology by procuring a biogas-electric hybrid bus.

covered. VTT’s role in the main stage of the project was to measure emissions and to produce comparable emission and energy use data from buses representing different technologies, by negative aspects of biogas buses were further analysed. By participating in the project, VTT could establish research co-operation with institutes in neighbouring countries.

31

7.

www.kaunoautobusai.lt

www.tartu.ee

Kauno Autobusai is one of the leading public transport stakeholders in Lithuania. The company is a member of the oldest and largest university in the country. The development

National Road Carriers Association, LINAVA, which has close

and management of Tartu is effected by the city government.

relations with related organisations in Lithuania and abroad. The mission of Kauno Autobusai is to provide public transport

Tartu aims to provide a modern environment and to promote

services with regular bus routes in the greater Kaunas area.

innovation and development. Initial steps have been made

About 90,000 passengers use the services provided daily.

to make the town’s transport system safer, more customer friendly and environmentally sustainable. Biogas will play

Kauno Autobusai operates more than 300 vehicles on 56

an important part in the city’s transport development plan,

routes with more than 650 bus stops. The company aims to

which runs from 2012 through 2020. Currently, there are 25

continuously improve the quality of its services with a radical

contractual bus lines and 2 commercial bus lines in Tartu. In 2013, the number of passengers using public transport in Tartu was more than 12,8 million. buses will run on biogas. Tartu aims to learn from other partners’ experience of using biogas through different project activities. The objective of

Kauno Autobusai has been a dissemination partner in the

joining the project was to implement the acquired knowledge

main stage and extension stage project, while also investing

in Tartu and to encourage the use of biogas in public transport

in eco-driving support eqiopment during the extension.

systems in the Baltic Sea Region.

www.its.waw.pl www.rdsd.lv

institution in Poland with more than 60 years of experience City Council and is responsible for the local transport system of the city of Riga. The public transport system in Riga is comprised of buses, possibilities to reduce the transport system’s environmental task.

in transport systems. The results of its work are a source of knowledge for the entire automotive branch of trade and industry in Poland, and the opinions issued by MTI represent an expert foundation to form legal acts concerning, among environmental protection. MTI is continuously researching and developing environmentally friendly technologies and biogas is one of the focus areas of the institute.

partner of the project. The main task of the department was organising two regional seminars, with the goal of widening the knowledge of local stakeholders and other parties concerned, regarding sustainable transport development using biogas as transport fuel.

During the extension stage, MTI has been the coordinator for the biogas upgrading installation. Participation in the project has provided the opportunity to learn about best practices of biogas used as bus fuel. As an effect of participating in the project, MTI has become the Polish information centre of biogas technologies.

32

7.

www.ati-erc.de

development agency for high-tech and innovative companies focus is on promotion of education, research and cooperation

cooperation. ATI erc supports companies interested in innovative international business.

with several feasibility and expert studies, organising two seminars in St. Petersburg to discuss biogas as transport fuel in Russia as well as disseminating the core messages of the

www.itc-bentwisch.de

The ITC Innovation and Trend Center, is a technology centre of the community of Bentwisch near Rostock. ITC supports

industrial real estates. Additionally, ITC lends professional support to these companies regarding business and strategy development and cooperates with more than 250 companies in the region. ITC has been a dissemination partner in the Baltic Biogas Bus main stage project. By using its network in northern the public transport sector.

33

”It’s not just a bus, it’s a concept. We need to push forward a new way of thinking about public transport” Nelson Rojas, project manager, HOG Energi

This publication has been produced with the europa.eu). The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the Baltic Biogas Bus project and can in no way be taken to

Production & layout: Biogas Öst Text & coordination: Sweco (contact: [email protected]) Photos: Fylkeskommune, Motor Transport Institute, Kauno Autobusai, Lennart Hallgren, Jaanus Tamm, Ants Liigus. Printing: Arkitektkopia, Stockholm, February 2015

On the road to climate neutral public transport