Value Delivered
The electric bus quick-chargers for this project were being designed and manufactured while the infrastructure to support them was being installed. So, the Oregon division of Dynalectric Company (Dynalectric Oregon) worked closely with ABB (the manufacturer), in collaboration with the general contractor and client, to help ensure the best layout for the facility. We installed new chargers and charging stations at two locations, Merlo Garage and Sunset Transit Center.
Client Objectives
This pilot project for electric buses supports the Metro Council’s “Climate Smart Strategy” to reduce the region’s per capita greenhouse gas emissions from cars and light trucks at least 20 percent by 2035. It also responds to the City of Portland and Multnomah County’s joint “Climate Action Plan,” calling for a transition to 100 percent clean energy by the year 2050.
Solutions
In addition to providing prototype design-build services, we:
- Installed six electric bus overnight chargers at the TriMet Merlo Garage (approximately 300,000 watts)
- Installed a new electric bus quick-charging station at the TriMet Sunset Station (approximately 150,000 watts)
- Managed excavation for the project
- Installed a significant run that we bore in from Portland General Electric vaults up the street
- Set up a new outside gear area
- Worked with the concrete vendor to manage slab-cutting and concrete for the facility (typically managed by a general contractor)
- Designed and fabricated stands for the disconnects associated with the chargers
Client Background
TriMet is a public agency operating mass public transit that provides commuter rail, light rail, and bus for the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Operating more than 650 buses, they have the 11th largest bus fleet in the U.S.