Jakarta targets 10,000 electric buses by 2030 to combat pollution

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced a target to have 10,000 electric buses operating in the capital by 2030. Currently, approximately 500 electric units are in service. The plan includes integrating hydrogen-powered and hybrid technology into the public transport system to reduce carbon emissions and air pollution.

According to TransJakarta data, transitioning to electric buses offers significant economic benefits. One electric bus can potentially save up to Rp302 million in fuel subsidies annually. Over a 5.5-year period, operational savings per unit could reach Rp3.9 billion, an amount comparable to the cost of a new 12-meter electric bus.

However, the Governor noted that local transportation improvements alone may not solve Jakarta’s air quality issues. He identified industrial activities in surrounding areas, specifically the Suralaya steam power plant in Banten, as major contributors to pollution due to the use of coal. Pramono emphasized the need for coordination with the central government to regulate industries in suburban buffer zones to effectively manage regional emissions.