Denbighshire County Council: pioneering zero emission transport in 2021 to 2022

Summary

In 2021 to 2022, Denbighshire County Council took major steps toward achieving a net zero fleet by 2030. With support from the Energy Service, the council began implementing fleet decarbonisation recommendations, including installing charge points, upgrading grid connections, and introducing electric vehicles. A standout initiative was the launch of Fflecsi, a flexible, demand-responsive electric bus service connecting Ruthin and surrounding communities, many for the first time.

Our support

The Energy Service worked closely with Denbighshire County Council to develop fleet decarbonisation reports and provide grant funding. This included support for the county’s first purchase of a Cityline zero emission electric bus, as well as funding for widespread charging infrastructure across key sites.

Technology solution

• 32 rapid charge points installed across 15 sites.
• Cityline electric bus with rooftop solar panels, the first of its kind operating in the UK.
• Fflecsi: a demand-responsive public transport system introduced in partnership with Transport for Wales.

Investment

• £104,000 grant for the Cityline zero emission bus.
• Additional funding secured for EV charging infrastructure across the county.

Impact

• Expanded access to sustainable public transport in rural areas.
• Enabled zero emission travel for residents in Ruthin and surrounding villages.
• Supported Welsh Government’s goals for fleet decarbonisation and innovative transport solutions.

Denbighshire County Council worked closely with the Energy Service fleet team to secure funding for new electric vehicle charging infrastructure at key sites across the county. We also secured funding through the service for a first-of-its-kind electric bus, operating an innovative demand responsive service, conveying residents in a zero emission and sustainable way.

Martin Griffiths, Fleet Mobility Officer, Denbighshire County Borough Council.