Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

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CityRail
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Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

Post by CityRail »

I wonder is it feasible, in Australian context, to install solar panels on rooftop of buses?

My understanding is that technological advanced foreign countries, such as Hong Kong, are installing solar panels on rooftop of double-decker buses to generate energy for air-conditioning and other electronics system on the bus, reducing fuel cost by up to 8%.

Considering good sunshine in Australia almost every day and advanced solar panel technology for homes, I wonder whether it is feasible to install solar panels on buses rooftop, so to provide similar savings and in particular, reduce emissions?

Discussions welcomed.
moa999
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Re: Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

Post by moa999 »

Not much room on the top of buses after all the air con units and vents.

Ignoring all the mounting issues you might fit two panels.. say 700W.
Bus routes will be in and out of shade all day. I'd be surprised if they could make 3kWh a day - which might power the Aircon for an hour or two

Most electric buses will be 300+kWh battery packs in comparison.

The same applies to electric cars - it's a lot of extra cost and complexity for limited gain.

Better to cover the bus depot with panels - cheaper, less risk of damage and in sunshine all day
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boronia
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Re: Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

Post by boronia »

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Re: Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

Post by Mr OC Benz »

There is a trial taking place in Singapore on two MAN A22 buses. https://landtransportguru.net/solar-pan ... ead-buses/
moa999
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Re: Feasibility to install solar panels on rooftop of buses

Post by moa999 »

On a diesel bus!
Total is 1000W of panels..
(And they wouldn't be cheap panels being thin film and high capacity)
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