The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is pushing ahead with a $3 billion commitment to transition its bus and coach fleet to zero emission technology, with a new trial set to begin across regional NSW.

The Expression of Interest (EOI) process is now open for bus and coach operators to participate in the $25 million Regional Zero Emission Bus Trials.

Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said zero emission bus technology is a key part of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government goal of reaching net zero by 2050.

“The transition of our bus fleet will have widespread benefits including improving air quality, noise reduction, a smoother trip for commuters and creating jobs right across NSW,” Mr Kean said.

“Hydrogen is one of the many ways forward in the heavy transport sector and this will ensure investment in clean technology, grow the economy and support regional jobs.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the trials present a great opportunity to partner with transport operators in regional areas to deliver new and more energy efficient transport options.

“We are about to kick off our first hydrogen bus trial on the Central Coast to better understand how the technology compares to battery electric buses and this trial will determine the most suitable technology to deliver the best services for our regional and rural communities,” Mr Farraway said. 

“We’re always looking at new ways to improve our bus network and services across regional NSW.

“We’ve now delivered more than 3,000 additional bus services under our 16 Regional Cities Services Improvement Program, making it easier and more reliable for communities to travel to work, school, visit friends and family and get to medical appointments and essential services.”

The expression of interest for the Regional Zero Emission Bus Trials is available by visiting https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/ and will remain open until 2 March 2023.