Analysis of Low-Emission Bus Network Conversion in the City of Olomouc by 2024

This thesis focuses on analyzing the impact of European carbon emission regulations on public transportation in cities and municipalities, with an emphasis on the case of the Olomouc City Transport Company a.s. (DPMO). The new regulation, specifically Directive 2019/1161, requires that newly purchased buses be emission-neutral, which will significantly affect the operations of transport companies in the Czech Republic and across Europe. The thesis examines the necessity of converting the existing diesel bus network to emission-free alternatives, specifically night and continuous charging technologies, and hydrogen propulsion. Through a cost-benefit analysis, the current state of DPMO is compared with the necessary electrification of the bus network, encompassing investment and operational costs, subsidies, and macroeconomic impacts. The results indicate that despite high initial costs, the conversion, particularly continuous charging technology, is economically advantageous and feasible. Hydrogen propulsion appears to be the most expensive option. The thesis suggests a preference. for continuous charging due to its easier implementation, scalability, and legislative compatibility. In conclusion, the thesis finds that converting the bus network to emission-free alternatives has the potential to significantly reduce the local carbon footprint. However, the success of this conversion will depend on the specific technological implementation and the composition of the energy mix.