Invest-NL supports Qbuzz in transition to emission-free public transport

Qbuzz is making a significant move towards fully emission-free public transportation by 2030. The transport company has announced an investment plan of € 14.8 million to accelerate the shift from diesel buses to electric ones. This transition includes the installation of 386 new charging points in its concession areas, along with a fast-charging station at Groningen's main station. This financing aligns with Invest-NL's goal of accelerating the transition to a CO₂-neutral economy.

Invest-NL is providing a € 5 million loan for this project, while the European Commission, through the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Facility (AFIF), is contributing € 3.9 million. Qbuzz itself is investing € 5,9 million in this ambitious transition. As the implementation partner of AFIF in the Netherlands, Invest-NL plays a crucial role in facilitating the financing needed for the charging infrastructure.

Innovative charging infrastructure

In addition to the construction of four charging depots and the fast-charging station, battery storage systems will be installed. These systems will enable efficient and flexible use of available grid capacity, helping to reduce the impact of grid congestion.

The charging points will be installed in phases over the next two years. During this time, more than 400 diesel buses in the Zuid-Holland Noord and Groningen-Drenthe concessions will be replaced by electric buses, leading to an annual reduction of 38 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions.

First AFIF Implementation

This project marks the first use of the AFIF grant in the Netherlands, with Invest-NL acting as the implementation partner. By ensuring financing, Invest-NL supports Qbuzz in realizing this sustainable transition. Leo Holwerda, director of capital at Invest-NL, expressed his satisfaction with the transaction: “This investment in the transition to emission-free public transport fits perfectly with our mission to finance sustainable innovations in the Netherlands. Through our collaboration with Qbuzz and the implementation of the AFIF grant, we are making a strong contribution to the sustainability of public transport and the reduction of CO₂ emissions. This project once again demonstrates how we can mobilize the necessary capital for a sustainable future using public funds.”

As the National Promotional Institute, Invest-NL works closely with the European Commission and other European entities, such as the European Investment Fund, to enable financing for sustainable and innovative enterprises. Through financial instruments like AFIF, Invest-NL helps innovative companies invest in a sustainable future.