Mortenson is partnering with AlphaStruxure to provide an energy-as-a-service solution for Montgomery County, Maryland’s transit agency, Ride On. The first-of-its-kind microgrid and electric bus charging infrastructure solution incorporates energy storage, solar, and backup generation. The Energy-as-a-Service model eliminates upfront cost to the County and provides long-term cost predictability.

The project is supporting Montgomery County’s goal to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 and their initiative to create a nation-leading transportation system powered by renewable and low-carbon fuels.

Ride On’s bus depot is responsible for the operations, maintenance, and parking for the service’s 200+ buses – 10 of which electric ones will be purchased in 2022. The microgrid will provide the depot with a sustainable, resilient, and reliable energy supply for electric bus charging and facility operations. The microgrid will support uninterrupted bus operations during power outages caused by severe weather or power grid failures. Additionally, the facility’s microgrid capabilities enable the facility to avoid utility demand charges and time-of-use tariffs.

Selected as the engineering, procurement, and construction contractor, Mortenson is closely coordinating with all stakeholders to ensure alignment and clarity for the project that will allow 44 buses to transition from diesel to electric. Mortenson is bringing engineering and construction experience in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, utility interconnection, energy storage, solar, power delivery solutions. The project will also support economic development in the region by creating more than 50 construction jobs.

The microgrid will include 2 MW of solar photovoltaic canopies, 1.5MW/3MWh of Dynapower battery energy storage, 2MW of onsite natural gas generation with a carbon neutral fuel transition strategy, charging, and energy management software, and ChargePilot and Heliox chargers.