This project assessed the feasibility of introducing low-carbon vehicles into Addis Ababa’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance urban mobility. Supported by AFD, GGGI conducted a pre-feasibility study comparing electric buses with conventional diesel options. The analysis evaluated financial, environmental, and economic viability, including lifecycle costs and emissions reductions. The study informed decision-making on fleet investment for the BRT B2 corridor and future expansion lines. By promoting cleaner transport solutions, the project contributes to Ethiopia’s climate goals while addressing congestion and improving public transport services in the capital city. 

The project aimed to support the Government of Ethiopia in identifying viable low-carbon transport solutions for Addis Ababa’s BRT system. It sought to assess the financial and environmental benefits of electric buses compared to diesel alternatives, enabling informed investment decisions that reduce emissions, improve air quality, and promote sustainable urban mobility. 

Addis Ababa faces growing challenges related to traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, road safety, and deteriorating air quality. To address these issues, the Government of Ethiopia initiated the development of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, beginning with a 17.4 km corridor designed to serve over 400,000 residents. 

While the initial plan considered diesel-powered buses meeting Euro standards, there was increasing interest in exploring cleaner alternatives. With financing secured from AFD for infrastructure development, GGGI was engaged to assess the feasibility of integrating low-carbon vehicles into the system. 

The project aligned with Ethiopia’s broader climate commitments under the Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy. It also provided an opportunity to set up a precedent for scaling sustainable transport solutions across multiple planned BRT corridors in the city. 

The project delivered a pre-feasibility study demonstrating the environmental and operational potential of battery electric buses for Addis Ababa’s BRT system. It identified suitable routes for deployment, assessed costs and benefits, and quantified emissions reduction potential. The findings supported evidence-based decision-making and highlighted opportunities for scaling low-carbon transport solutions across the city’s planned BRT network.