Okotoks Transit Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) Implementation and Rollout Plan
Resilient Okotoks
In 2021, the Town of Okotoks created the Resilient Okotoks Climate Action Plan 2021- 2033. In this plan, the Town outlines its target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. A goal of this plan is to improve access to regional and local transit with a target to increase trips made by transit or active transportation by 25 per cent by 2030. From these objectives, the Town contracted CUTRIC in 2022 to complete a feasibility analysis the Town of Okotoks Zero Emissions Bus Fleet Implementation and Rollout Plan.
Acknowledgement of Support
This $1.1 million project is partially funded by Infrastructure Canada through the Zero Emission Transit Fund. CUTRIC and Okotoks Transit extends its sincere gratitude to the Canadian Government and Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada for their invaluable contributions to Town of Okotoks Zero Emissions Bus Fleet Implementation and Rollout Plan through the Zero Emission Transit Fund. This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing sustainable transportation solutions that support municipalities across Canada in achieving their environmental and operational goals.
Path to Net Zero
Town of Okotoks Zero Emissions Bus Fleet Implementation and Rollout Plan
Okotoks commissioned CUTRIC to develop the Town of Okotoks Zero Emissions Bus Fleet Implementation and Rollout Plan for the municipality as a response to the federal government’s investment of $2.4 billion in upgrades for public transit systems to transition to zero emissions systems over the next decade. This study assesses economic, technological and environmental benefits, risks and constraints associated with a transition to a fleet of zero emissions vehicles. The study explored the current on- demand service, a theoretical fixed route service as well as an introduction to autonomous shuttles.
Key Highlights
- Timeline flexibility: The timeline for full fleet decarbonization may be subject to change depending on market conditions, supply chain improvements, and technological advancements. Accelerations or delays in infrastructure and technology could impact the rollout schedule.
- Strategic scenarios: This study focuses on Scenario One (full BEB solution) which transitions the fleet to battery electric buses (BEBs). This decision is due to Okotoks Transit’s use of small-sized buses (20- to 30-foot) which are not available in fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs) at this time.
Service Types
- On-demand service: current service model operated by Okotoks Transit.
- Fixed-route service: proposed service expansion to include two loops of fixed- route service.
Summary of Findings
Base Case
Scenario Two (full FCEB solution)
About Okotoks Transit
Okotoks Transit is a forward-thinking, sustainability-focused public transportation provider serving the Town of Okotoks, Alberta. As a community committed to environmental responsibility, Okotoks Transit has taken bold steps to align its services with the Resilient Okotoks Climate Action Plan 2021–2033.
The Town of Okotoks has established a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In support of this goal, Okotoks Transit is working to enhance regional and local connectivity while transitioning to a zero-emission fleet. The service currently operates using an on-demand model that offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness for residents. Future plans include the potential addition of fixed-route service and the integration of autonomous vehicles.
With the support of the Zero Emission Transit Fund and through collaboration with CUTRIC, Okotoks Transit has developed a comprehensive Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) Fleet Implementation and Rollout Plan. This project leverages performance modeling, infrastructure analysis, and sustainability evaluation to ensure a practical and impactful transition. The Town of Okotoks is proud to lead by example in Canada’s small urban transit electrification movement.
