Energy saving in Miskolc: trams, electric buses and CNG buses also affected by new measures

After the MÁV Group and BKK, the public transport operator in Miskolc has also introduced energy-saving measures. Due to the increased load on the electricity system, MVK Zrt. is modifying the charging schedule for its electric buses, changing the timing of refuelling for its CNG buses, and reducing peak loads in tram operations as well.

According to the Miskolc transport company, tram drivers will avoid intensive acceleration when pulling away from stops and signalised junctions, thereby reducing the high power draw that occurs at start-up. No speed restriction will be introduced, however, as the tram network is equipped with regenerative systems, allowing braking trams to feed energy back and support the movement of other vehicles on the tram lines. The measures are expected to have only a minor impact on journey times.

The changes also affect the depot. Charging of MVK’s 20 BYD electric buses will begin after the residential afternoon and evening peak period, from 10 p.m., in order to reduce the load on the electricity grid. For the same reason, refuelling of buses running on compressed natural gas will also be rescheduled to the period after the peak, as operating the gas compression units requires a significant amount of electricity.

MVK’s measures fit in with energy-saving steps being introduced nationwide; the MÁV Group is also limiting the power draw of electric locomotives and rescheduling the charging of electric buses to late-evening hours, while in Budapest BKK and BKV are seeking to ease the load on the electricity system with similar measures.