A new concept of solar-powered electric bike stations by Beryl hits the market
Deployment planned in Cornwall
Shared bike company Beryl has launched a new concept of electric bike stations powered by solar energy. This pioneering project will be deployed in Cornwall with six installations, the locations of which will be determined by local consultations. This initiative is part of a series of transportation decarbonization demonstration programs, funded by the Department for Transport.
Project Goal
The funding was secured through a competitive process that sought local solutions primarily aimed at reducing emissions in transportation. Analyses were conducted to identify areas in the UK that would have enough sunlight to meet the energy needs of the stations.
Technology Used
The technology used employs rubber solar panels that generate enough energy to significantly reduce the battery exchanges needed throughout the day, thus minimizing maintenance team interventions. The first stations are expected to be operational by March 2025.
Benefits for Cornwall
Patrick Donnelly, Beryl’s policy manager, stated: “We are very excited to implement this innovative project for the industry, offering a model for the success of electric bike-sharing systems in less densely populated rural areas. With more than 300 electric bikes spread over 870 km², battery exchanges in Cornwall can be time-consuming, costly, and inefficient. Solar stations could reduce up to sixty exchanges per day, freeing up more resources for repairs and increasing the number of electric bikes available in circulation by up to 15%.”
Ecology and Costs
Since the stations do not need a grid connection, they will reduce the carbon footprint and operational costs of the system, making expansion into new areas more feasible. “Ultimately, the project aims to increase the number of electric bike trips and, by improving efficiency and reducing operational costs, could generate up to 50,000 additional trips per year across Cornwall,” added Donnelly.
Beryl’s Expansion
Beryl has been operational in Cornwall since 2022, starting in Falmouth. Since then, other towns have joined, and there are now 302 electric bikes spread across 110 stations.
Innovation Prospects
Mike Biddle, Net Zero executive director at Innovate UK, said: “By approaching decarbonization from a local perspective, we hope these projects will bring broader benefits, such as better health for residents through improved access to active transport modes, a greater sense of community created by the systems, and reduced congestion levels thanks to fewer private vehicles on the road. We look forward to the project’s completion next year and its impact.”
