Ljubljana secures EU funding for 16 electric buses to modernise public transport

Slovenia’s capital will receive €3.5 million in EU support for fleet renewal, targeting cleaner air and lower emissions. The city will acquire three types of electric buses.

Ljubljana is set to bolster its public transport system with the acquisition of 16 new battery-electric buses, backed by €3.5 million in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The initiative, part of Slovenia’s EU Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027, aims to enhance sustainable urban mobility and reduce the city’s carbon footprint.

The €11.6 million project will see the introduction of six 18-metre articulated electric buses, five 12-metre standard electric buses, and five 9-metre compact electric buses. These vehicles are intended to replace ageing diesel-powered units, thereby improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the city.

The funding falls under the programme’s priority of promoting sustainable multimodal urban mobility, aligning with the EU’s broader objectives for a net-zero carbon economy. By modernising its bus fleet, Ljubljana aims to provide more reliable and environmentally friendly public transport services, meeting the expectations of passengers and stakeholders alike.

In addition to environmental benefits, the new electric buses are expected to offer operational advantages, including increased reliability and lower maintenance costs. The project underscores Ljubljana’s commitment to sustainable development and its proactive approach to integrating clean energy solutions into urban infrastructure.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development announced the approval of EU funding for this project on 28 April 2025. The investment is a significant step towards achieving the city’s long-term goals for sustainable urban mobility and environmental stewardship.

gov.si, radiosi.rtvslo.si