Connecting rural Quebec communities

Electrification of Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine’s bus fleet

Inter-municipal transit services create vital links between communities in rural regions throughout Canada, including Atlantic Quebec. But due to distances travelled, low density, and lack of infrastructure, electrified public buses are not often considered viable options outside large urban centres. Nevertheless, sourcing more sustainable, cost-effective measures means small budgets can go further with more route options for rural residents, while supporting local and provincial sustainability goals, and aligning with Canada’s 2050 net-zero target.

The region of Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine’s transit service, Régie intermunicipale de transport Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine (RÉGÎM), serves approximately 18 routes, varying from 15 to 105 kilometres in length. With their current traditional bus fleet, the routes are determined by available operating budget, not available buses—but the community is looking to change that by implementing a fully electrified bus system with charging stations installed in strategic locations across the territory to ensure a seamless user experience.

Through $1.75 million in funding from GMF and the Government of Canada, RÉGÎM will fully electrify their entire network with the purchase of 21 electric buses, including 10 paratransit vehicles. Twelve charging stations will be built and shared with neighbouring participant communities, increasing local access and knowledge.

Once completed, the new bus fleet is expected to make considerable environmental and cost-saving impacts, including reducing local GHG emissions by 98 percent, decreasing energy use by 72 percent and lowering energy costs by 64 percent. The redesign of the network could result in increased mobility for the population, thereby supporting job creation and the economy.