November 2, 2024
Microgrid Labs Underpins Via Mobility Services Grant for Renewable Energy Microgrid
The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Clean Transit Enterprise (CTE) division has awarded Via Mobility Services funding to develop a renewable energy microgrid aimed at enhancing facility resilience and supporting mutual aid responsibilities for the City of Boulder. This initiative will ensure Via’s ability to maintain power and communication during electric grid outages, reinforcing its role as a first responder in disaster management. The project aligns seamlessly with the transit agency’s commitment to achieving a fully electric bus fleet.
Via Mobility currently operates Boulder’s 17 circulator buses, which provide essential transportation for residents and University of Colorado students, as well as the county’s 10 shuttle buses that connect communities and recreation across the county. With a mission to fully electrify its fleet by 2035, Via is now on track to achieve this goal five years ahead of schedule. Additionally, Via operates more than 50 shuttles in the Denver Metro area and has begun the process of electrifying these services.
Microgrid Labs (MGL), a long-time partner of the City of Boulder and Via Mobility, has played a pivotal role in modeling and designing electric bus services, charging infrastructure, and on-site renewable microgrids. The planned microgrid will support facility operations with plans to expand for bus charging with a resilient clean energy system. To maximize the impact of public funding, the project requires private matching funds, and the team is actively seeking partners to join this transformative effort.
Together, Via Mobility and Microgrid Labs are setting a benchmark for resilient transit infrastructure powered by renewable energy.