Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Electrifying the Commute in Kazakhstan
100 new electric buses diversify the bus fleet
Inhabitants 1.16 million GDP per capita $18,743 Geographic area 810 km²
THE CHALLENGE Air pollution from transportation is a leading health hazard in Nur-Sultan. To address this, the city is upgrading part of its bus fleet with electric buses to improve air quality.
The capital city of Nur-Sultan in Kazakhstan has upgraded part of its bus fleet by introducing 100 electric buses. The electric buses began being deployed in Nur-Sultan at the start of 2020 and are expected to support the local transportation system by reducing interval and waiting times. The lithium-ion battery buses contribute less to air and noise pollution than previous diesel models, and are also equipped with USB ports and Wi-Fi for the enjoyment of riders. Electrification is widely regarded as one of the best ways to decarbonize the transport sector that has long been oil-dependent. Although currently largely reliant on fossil fuel-based power, the emissions the buses are responsible for will fall as the country increases its share of renewables in the energy mix. In a city where air pollution from transportation is a leading health hazard, the new buses will help reduce the emission of harmful NOx particles and improve air quality for residents. The city is also encouraging the use of private electric vehicles with 49 new electric charging stations installed throughout Nur-Sultan.
Co-benefits Economic The city believes the project will impact the local economy by creating jobs and helping local businesses located close to the charging stations. Health The electric buses will reduce the amount of harmful NOx particles in the air, thus helping to improve the health of residents. Environmental By replacing diesel buses with lithium-ion battery buses, the city will begin decreasing its air and noise pollution.
100 electric buses in Nur-Sultan. The new electric buses will transport residents in a more environmentfriendly manner (photo by City Transportation Systems).
52 100 CLIMATE ACTIONS FROM CITIES IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
