The Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) was awarded a $5 million grant to advance its effort to become California’s first all-electric transit operator. The grant, awarded by the California Energy Commission (CEC), will be used to acquire charging stations, batteries, and the other solar infrastructure required to support ATN’s MicroGrid and zero-emission vehicle fleet.

“This investment will assist ATN in delivering a world-class electric bus fleet that will not only benefit passengers, but will also enhance air quality for the entire region,” said Diana Kotler, ATN’s executive director. “With a goal of becoming California’s first all-electric bus fleet by 2025, we are excited to be creating sustainable public transportation options to meet the transit demands of local residents, employees, and visitors.”

Funds provided as part of the CEC’s Clean Transportation Program will assist in the purchase, installation, and integration of ATN’s MicroGrid and solar charging infrastructure. The infrastructure includes multiple TESLA MegaPack battery-energy storage systems; microgrid controller units; and heavy-duty, electric battery charging stations at both of ATN’s facilities in Anaheim.

“In addition to ATN’s own investments, we have been working to establish partnerships and other local funding opportunities in order to realize the environmental and economic benefits of a fully solar-charged bus fleet,” Kotler added.

In September 2020, ATN announced a partnership with AMPLY Power to manage all aspects of charging for the transit agency's electric buses — from system design, installation, equipment purchases, operations, and maintenance. The 20-year purchase power agreement and charge management service includes the construction of a 545kW solar canopy that provides 25% of the total expected energy consumption.