An integrated mobility and energy simulation framework for assessing the impact of bus opportunity charging strategies on the power grid

Journal Article (2026)
Author(s)

Jie Gao (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)

Siebren van Noort (Student TU Delft)

Jop Spoelstra (Technolution)

Gonçalo Homem de Almeida Correia (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)

Research Group
Transport, Mobility and Logistics
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trip.2026.101900 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Research Group
Transport, Mobility and Logistics
Journal title
Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Volume number
36
Article number
101900
Downloads counter
68
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Abstract

Electric buses (EBs) play a crucial role in achieving global greenhouse gas emission targets. However, efficiently operating an electric bus fleet (EBF) requires a comprehensive approach that considers both mobility and energy systems, particularly when implementing opportunity charging strategies. Existing literature and many real-life implementations often focus on only one of these systems, oversimplifying the other, which can lead to inefficiencies, operational challenges, or even unfeasible implementations. To fill this gap, we propose a framework to assess the impact of bus opportunity charging strategies on the power grid by integrating a traffic simulation model (SUMO) and a power grid simulation model (Gaia). SUMO evaluates the energy consumption and charging needs of the EBs, while Gaia assesses the impact of the transformer load in the distribution grid. The integrated method is applied to Rotterdam’s bus line 36 to demonstrate the practicality of this approach. Results indicate that designing an electric bus route with opportunity charging is feasible only when both mobility and energy systems are carefully coordinated.