Abstract:
Since the inception of the Paris Agreement in 2015, commitments to a more sustainable
long-term climate change outcome have taken traction in both the public and private
sector. This can be seen in changes in international norms and standards, local policy and
legislation, adoption of green technologies and utilisation of sustainable sourcing and
materials.
In the transport sector, these changes have taken the form of efficiency improvements in
existing technologies including internal combustion engine vehicles, the introduction of
electric and hydrogen powered vehicles, policies incentivising the ownership of electric
vehicles, access to financing through climate funds and many others. For public entities
responsible for ensuring viable public transport, the question of transitioning to alternative
fuels is now a pertinent one.
This paper examines the anticipated cost and climate impact associated with the transition
to an alternative fuel bus fleet in the South African context. This is done through estimating
the total cost of ownership of various bus types and demonstrating the impact on
cashflows and budgeting for given scenarios. Moreover, it estimates the reduction in
tailpipe emissions associated with diversifying the bus fleet mix, particularly in the context
of improved emission of internal combustion engine vehicles. Lastly, it considers the
economic context of South Africa, and the balance of committing to decarbonisation
strategies, while addressing infrastructure and other needs.
