Belize City Launches E-Bus Service and Charging Depot

A significant milestone was achieved today as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics, and E-Governance (MPUELE), the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport through the Department of Transport (DoT), and the Belize City Council (BCC), with funding support from the European Union (EU), launched the e-bus service and charging depot of the E-Mobility Pilot Project.

The charging depot, located at the corner of Dean and Regent Streets in Belize City, is equipped with two 220-volt chargers capable of powering the two e-buses, ensuring efficient and reliable service. The bus service is set to begin on Monday, July 22, 2024, providing citizens with a clean and sustainable public transportation option within the city.

“E-Mobility – Our citizens deserve this,” stated Mayor Bernard Wagner. “Our community deserves this, and most importantly, our planet needs this. Today’s launch is as bold as it is electric!”

The initiative aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UNDP’s Belize Office’s Country Programme. UNDP’s Resident Representative, Kishan Khoday, emphasized the importance of partnerships and innovation in achieving a greener and more inclusive future while addressing climate change.

“Today illustrates the spirit of collaboration and innovation that can be achieved when government departments, development partners, the private sector, and civil society unite towards the national NDC climate plan,” said Khoday.

Aniceto Rodriguez-Ruiz, the EU’s Head of Cooperation, highlighted the role of international cooperation in tackling global environmental challenges. “We are proud to be the first friend and partner of Belize to financially invest in such a modern, smart, green, and clean transport option.”

During the inauguration, guests toured the depot and experienced the intra-city route on the electric buses, witnessing the benefits of e-mobility and its potential to transform the city’s transportation system. The unveiling of the bus wrapping design showcased its brand identity, aimed at raising awareness and fostering a connection between the e-bus service and its environmental benefits.

Michel Chebat, Minister of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics, and E-Governance, remarked, “The effect of climate change has forced governments worldwide to refocus their energies. The Government of Belize, with this ambitious E-Mobility Pilot Project, underscores our commitment to reducing carbon footprints, enhancing air quality, promoting renewable energy, and fostering a cleaner and greener future for all our citizens. This project is part of the smart energy solutions and energy policies promoted by the Ministry.”

Through the Electric Mobility Pilot Project, Belize is advancing towards sustainable urban transportation, reducing emissions, and providing cleaner air for the country. Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Transport, stated, “In alignment with the United Nations Charter, this marks the initial step in decarbonizing Belize’s public transport sector. Our goal is to meet the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) climate target by reducing 117 ktCO2e annually from the transportation sector.”