Plan de energías limpias: hablamos con Pablo Bereciartua, min. infraestructura │N7:00│ 28-07-25
Buenos Aires' Clean Mobility Initiative
Introduction to the Mobility Plan
- The city of Buenos Aires is undergoing a transformation in its transportation system, aiming for cleaner energy solutions.
- Minister Pablo Verartúa discusses the initial steps of this clean mobility plan, focusing on electrified transport units.
Recent Developments in Public Transport
- Buenos Aires has recently taken responsibility for 30 bus lines, marking a significant shift in public transport management.
- A resolution was signed to transition to clean energy by January 2027, mandating that all new buses must utilize clean energy sources.
Financial Incentives and Subsidies
- Starting July, subsidies will be adjusted to support electric and gas-powered buses, leading to an estimated savings of 14 billion pesos annually.
- By 2026, the goal is for 15% of bus units to be either gas or electric; this will increase to 30% by 2027.
Implementation of Electric Buses
- The first fully electric bus line is already operational in central Buenos Aires as part of this initiative.
- A contract has been awarded for the purchase of 60 electric trambuses that will operate across a new route from north to south.
User Benefits and Subsidy Structure
- Passengers using gas buses will receive a subsidy increase of 20%, while those on electric buses will see a boost of 30%.
- The subsidy model has shifted from being based on distance traveled (offer-based) to passenger counts (demand-based), promoting efficiency and reducing empty trips.
Identifying Clean Energy Units
- New identification systems are being implemented for both gas and electric buses, ensuring passengers can easily recognize them.
- Electric buses are notably quieter than diesel ones, contributing not only to reduced emissions but also less noise pollution in urban areas.
Energy Transition and Urban Mobility
The Impact of Energy Transition on Urban Life
- The energy transition is driven by climate concerns, environmental factors, and the desire for quieter urban spaces. Cities like Madrid have seen significant reductions in transportation noise, enhancing the quality of life.
- Buenos Aires aims to replicate this success with initiatives such as a new tram system (trambus), which is expected to serve around 50,000 passengers daily and integrate with existing public transport lines.
Modernization of Public Transport
- Over 70% of buses in Buenos Aires are now equipped with internal and external cameras connected to a mobility monitoring system, marking a first for the metropolitan area.
- The introduction of multipayment options across public transport simplifies fare payment methods, allowing users to pay via credit/debit cards or mobile phones. This modernization reduces costs for users during economic adjustments.
Competition and Subsidies in Public Transport
- New payment systems foster competition among service providers, leading to promotions that benefit users. The subte (subway) has already recorded over 5 million transactions using these new payment methods.
- Unlike traditional subsidies funded by taxes, recent changes allow private sector competition to provide free travel options through promotional offers, showcasing an innovative approach to public transport funding.
Global Leadership in Payment Systems
- Buenos Aires is at the forefront globally regarding multipayment systems in public transport; it offers features not yet available in cities like Paris despite similar offerings in London.
Future Developments in Transportation
- Upcoming projects include electric buses and trambuses aimed at improving city transportation efficiency. A commitment has been made to renew bus fleets significantly within months.
- Since taking office, nearly 700 units have been renewed out of approximately 1,000 total units. Plans are underway to increase this number further while incorporating sustainable energy solutions into the fleet.