News / Engineering
Bristol engineering firm to electrify First Bus depot
A Bristol-based engineering firm with nearly four decades of expertise under its belt has undertaken one of its largest projects to date: the electrification of a local First Bus depot.
Unitary Engineering Services (UES) will deliver the full electrification of the First Bus depot in Taunton.
The £1.7 million contract will see UES overhaul the depot, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history.
Adam Griffiths, managing director at UES, said: “This is a major project for us, and we’re excited to deploy the full range of engineers we have available.
The electrification of First Bus’s depots sits with company’s pledge to operate a fully zero emission fleet by 2035 – photo: First Bus
“From a technical perspective, the installation of the chargers is something we’re particularly eager to be involved with, as it forms part of an innovative solution for improving the environment for passengers and the community.
“As a business, taking on major projects like these feels like the culmination of almost four decades of technical excellence in delivering efficient, sustainable environments.”
The project, which began in November and is set for completion in March 2024, will contribute 30 per cent of UES’s annual turnover.
It will involve a comprehensive range of engineering tasks, including groundworks, steel fabrication, electrical installation, shopfitting, and mechanical works.
The revitalised depot will accommodate 26 new electric buses, offer expanded storage, and feature updated office and welfare facilities.
This initiative is part of First Bus’s ambitious plan to establish a zero-emission fleet by 2035. In March 2024, the company announced an £89 million investment in 178 zero-emission buses and associated infrastructure across the UK.
UES itself has recently embarked on the electrification of its fleet as part of its journey towards B Corp status. The company’s involvement in such a significant project is expected to further establish its credentials in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions.
Simon Goff, managing director of First Bus South, highlighted UES’s commitment to sustainability as a key factor in their selection as the main contractor.
The family-run engineering firm, headquartered in East Bristol, was founded in 1986 by Roger Griffiths and is now managed by his son, Adam.
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The firm has maintained a strong business presence across the South West and Wales, providing commercial and industrial heating, plumbing, electrical, and renewable services.
The electrification of First Bus’s depots in Taunton, Minehead, and Weston sits with company’s pledge to operate a fully zero emission fleet by 2035.
Main photo: TurnTheTables
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