Ulster County Area Transit PV System

In 2023, Ulster County set out to transform how their public transportation systems and operate more cleanly and efficiently at the Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) facility. To improve the energy efficiency of its fleet and significantly reduce overall emissions, UCAT partnered with the New York State Power Authority (NYPA) and LaBella Associates to design and deliver a fleet electrification infrastructure project at its facility in Kingston, NY.

What began as a plan to install three electric chargers evolved into something much greater. As the County identified broader sustainability and resiliency goals, the project expanded to include onsite renewable energy generation and infrastructure improvements that would “futureproof” the facility for years to come.

The final design features a 480-panel rooftop solar array generating 204 kilowatts of renewable electricity—providing clean, daytime power to charge UCAT’s growing fleet. The upgraded garage now supports five electric buses and several paratransit vehicles, with room to accommodate additional fast chargers, and even light-duty vehicle charging as needs grow.

To power and protect these operations, the project included 12 DC fast (Level 3) electric bus chargers, four dual Level 2 chargers, a new 150-kilowatt power cabinet, electrical infrastructure upgrades, and a 400-kilowatt emergency backup generator—ensuring UCAT can continue operating up to 15 vehicles even during grid outages.

This was a first-of-its-kind project for NYPA, serving as a model for other New York agencies seeking to decarbonize their transit operations. The effort was made possible through the collaboration and support of the New York State Energy Research and Develop Authority (NYSERDA), the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Dormitory Authority, and the EV Make-Ready Program.

LaBella developed the design documents, led the bidding process to select a qualified electrical contractor, and guided the project through construction as Construction Manager, overseeing all on-site activities and coordination among partners.

The result is a modern, resilient, and sustainable facility that demonstrates what’s possible when innovation, collaboration, and clean energy goals align—powering a greener future for Ulster County and beyond.