RIPTA Completes Northeast Region’s First Electric-Bus In-Line Charging Station

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), members of the state’s congressional delegation, FTA, municipal leaders, and representatives from Rhode Island Energy gathered recently to celebrate the completion of construction on Rhode Island’s first electric-bus in-line charging station.

“At RIPTA, we are proud to lead by example when it comes to battling climate change. The completion of the electric-bus in-line charging station marks a significant achievement for RIPTA and Rhode Island,” said Christopher Durand, RIPTA interim chief executive officer. “This innovative facility, located along our most frequently used route, represents our commitment to cleaner, sustainable transportation. The introduction of our first fully electric fleet will not only reduce emissions but also enhance the quality of air and life in the communities we serve.”

The charging station, the first of its kind in the Northeast region, is located along the R-Line—RIPTA’s most frequently used route—connecting Providence, Cranston, and Pawtucket. It can charge up to four electric buses simultaneously while they are in service. The station includes driver restrooms and various site enhancements, including an on-site snow-melt system.

“We applaud RIPTA’s efforts to advance its electric bus program with this innovative charging station, which smooths the way for efficient fueling and maintenance and has the added value of providing amenities for bus drivers,” said Peter Butler, regional administrator for FTA, which provided $5 million to RIPTA to buy hybrid-electric buses.

The facility will power RIPTA’s first electric fleet, 14 New Flyer Xcelsior XE40 buses, all of which will exclusively serve the R-Line. Electrifying this route will lower emissions on a key corridor, where many low-income and diverse communities have been affected by air pollution and experience high asthma rates.

“RIPTA is charging ahead to a clean energy future. Shoring up RIPTA’s fleet of electric buses on the R-Line with reliable charging infrastructure is critical to getting more green buses on the road and will help our state save money, reduce pollution, and improve air quality, all while giving Rhode Islanders an affordable and healthier way of getting where they need to go,” said Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI). “I was proud to help deliver over $2 million in federal funds from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to advance this new charging station and build upon more than $35 million in federal funds that Rhode Island has received over the last five years to build up and strengthen its electric-bus fleet.”