The UK’s first state-of-the-art bus shelter using wind turbine and solar technologies is being installed in Telford town centre this week.
The off-grid bus shelter on St Quentin Gate will generate enough electricity, approximately 1,016kWh a year, to power its lights and advertising panels using the renewable, carbon-free energy generated.
A second green shelter across the road will have a roof planted with sedum which is rich in nectar and a favourite of bees and other pollinating insects.
As well as helping pollinators, the green roofed shelter will absorb carbon from the air which will help the council achieve its aspiration to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Cllr Carolyn Healy, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for climate change, green spaces, natural and historic environment, said: “The bus shelters are another step forward in our green journey to help tackle the climate emergency.
“We are the first authority in the country to install a smart shelter powered by solar and wind turbine technology and one of the first in the region to welcome a bus stop with a living roof.
“They are great examples of how we’re improving our borough’s climate, biodiversity and air quality.”
The green bus shelters will be operational from the end of this month and are part of a trial with a view to introduce more in the future within the Borough.
Cllr David Wright, cabinet member for economy, housing, transport and infrastructure, said: “The initiative is part of our wider Bus Services Improvement Plan development, which will seek to secure funding to improve the bus service in the borough, making it greener, cleaner and more efficient for bus users.
“As well as installing more green bus shelters, we are looking to introduce other improvements to encourage bus use including cheaper flat rate fares, wider route coverage and clearer timetables.”