Poland on the road to low-emission public transportation

In recent years, in response to global climate challenges and pollution, many European cities have been working hard to reduce emissions in public transportation. An increasing number of cities are choosing to replace traditional vehicles with electric buses, due to the numerous benefits of this investment. One of the most important advantages comes from the fact that electric vehicles do not emit exhaust fumes, resulting in cleaner air. This, in turn, translates into improved living comfort for residents and public health. Low-emission transportation also means lower greenhouse gas emissions, which contributes to the fight against climate change. In addition, electric public transportation is much quieter.

The electric bus market in Poland is growing rapidly, as confirmed by an analysis by the Polish Chamber of Electromobility Development. According to statistics from the first half of 2023, the number of registered electrobuses in our country has reached 856 units. Among cities with the largest number of such vehicles, Warsaw is in the lead, with a fleet of 148 electric buses. Poznań takes second place with 86 electrobuses, followed closely by Cracow, with 78 electric buses. By 2028, Polish cities with populations over 50,000 will be required to incorporate at least 30% zero-emission or biomethane-powered vehicles into their fleets. This is part of a broader effort to reduce CO2 emissions in transportation, in line with EU regulations and the Electromobility Act, which calls for emissions from heavy-duty vehicles to fall by 40% by 2040.

Optimization of Charging Station Operation through PLC Controller and Temperature Sensors

In one of the European cities, we collaborated with a company that provides energy to charging points for zero-emission buses for the public transport enterprise. Our efforts were focused on delivering a solution consisting of a temperature measurement and control system for four compact charging stations. Each of these stations was equipped with key technical components, including high and low voltage distribution stations, a transformer, uninterrupted power supply systems of 48VDC, remote control and fire protection systems, as well as air conditioning installations.

An extremely important aspect of this project is the advanced control technology, including our PLC controller mTRON T in combination with temperature sensors for air conditioning systems. This system allows for precise monitoring of different areas of the station, such as transformer rooms or high and low voltage distribution boards, enabling their independent and efficient operation.

Control over the management system is achieved through a fully customizable touchscreen with manual operation and user levels, tailored for both operators and moderators. The home screen provides the user with a clear overview of the HVAC control status in the transformer room, the 48VDC room, and the low and high voltage distribution installations.

SCADA System in Remote Management of Transformer Stations for Electric Bus Chargers in Urban Transport

The system we delivered was integrated with the existing SCADA system. This integration allows for continuous environmental condition monitoring through temperature alarms, ensuring optimal operation of the equipment. Secondly, the functionality of remote PID setting adjustments provides operators with the flexibility to modify system parameters in response to changing operational conditions. Another important aspect is the capability for rapid response to fires and other emergency situations, offering an additional level of protection. Lastly, with the registration of logins, the client has full control over who has access to the system and what changes have been made, enhancing their ability to maintain the continuity and security of the entire system.

Climate Control in Electric Bus Charging Stations – Summary

Across Europe, there's a growing trend towards the electrification of public transport, a movement that is also gaining importance in Poland. This development is a response to the need to reduce environmental pollution and improve the quality of life in cities. Electric buses are becoming increasingly popular, replacing traditional vehicles and contributing to cleaner air and reduced noise pollution. In Poland, the dynamic increase in the number of electric buses is a clear signal of this change, with cities like Warsaw, Poznań, and Kraków leading the way in actively developing their fleets of zero-emission vehicles.

This thoughtful approach to urban transport not only significantly reduces air pollution and noise but also contributes to the fight against climate change. In the context of our collaboration with the company providing energy to charging stations, we integrated the existing SCADA system with our advanced PLC controller, mTRON T, and temperature sensors for air conditioning systems. This allowed for efficient control and management of the charging stations, enhancing operational independence and safety. Features like login registration and temperature alarms are just some of the advanced functionalities of our system, integrated with the existing SCADA system.

The control of the charging stations is fully automated and features a dedicated touchscreen panel with user-level access. The successful implementation of this project serves as a model example for the further development of sustainable transport in Europe. The system is user-friendly and a valuable tool for the transport sector, supporting the development of infrastructure for low-emission vehicles.

About the author

My name is Ewelina Szmit and I have been working in the field of content marketing for several years, combining my professional skills with my passion for writing. I believe that even the most technical topics can be presented in an interesting and accessible way for everyone. Outside of work, I develop my creativity by creating newspaper collages. I like to spend my free time most actively, walking my dog or running.

Comments

We encourage you to leave your comments via the form below. They will be posted online after they have been approved through our review process.