Analysis of the Correlation Between Electric Bus Charging Strategies and Carbon Emissions from Electricity Production

Reducing carbon dioxide emissions in transportation has become a priority for achieving emission targets. Transitioning to electric vehicles significantly decreases global CO2 emissions and reduces urban noise and air pollution. The selection of efficient charging strategies for electric bus fleets substantially influences their environmental impact. This study analyzes the charging strategy for electric bus fleets based on real operational data from Győr, Hungary. It evaluates the impact of different charging times and strategies on CO2 emissions, considering the energy mixes of Hungary, Poland, Germany, and Sweden. A methodology has been developed for defining sustainable and environmentally friendly charging strategies by incorporating operational conditions as well as daily, monthly, and seasonal fluctuations in emission factors. Results indicate substantial potential for emission reduction through the recommended alternative charging strategies, although further studies regarding battery lifespan and economic feasibility of infrastructure investments are recommended. The novelty of this work lies in integrating real charging data with hourly country-specific emission intensity values to assess environmental impacts dynamically. A comparative framework of four charging strategies provides quantifiable insights into emission reduction potential under diverse national energy mixes.