Zero Emissions by 2035
Join us in our journey to a cleaner tomorrow
Metro is one of the only large transit agencies in the country working toward a 100% zero-emissions fleet by 2035. Over the next decade, we’ll buy zero-emissions buses, continue to invest in electric trolleys, add charging infrastructure to existing bases, build new bases, and invest in new technology systems to manage an evolving fleet.
A zero-emissions fleet will drastically cut air and noise pollution, making our King County community cleaner and healthier.
A healthier King County
Zero Emissions is our path to an innovative, sustainable mobility network that our communities can rely on.
Sustainable service
Transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet will eliminate our reliance on fossil fuels. Reducing our emissions now is an investment in a more sustainable future.
Healthier communities
Battery-electric buses cut air pollution and keep noise down, too. We’re introducing battery-electric buses in King County communities most affected by air and noise pollution from transportation.
Leading the charge
We’re on track to be one of the first large transit agencies in North America with a fully zero-emissions fleet – and we take that seriously. We’re committed to sharing our successes and lessons learned along the way.
Follow our transition
We started our zero-emissions fleet transition in areas overburdened by air and noise pollution in south King County. We’re also partnering with Sound Transit on opportunity chargers at park and rides. Learn more about these efforts below.
Metro’s journey to Zero Emissions
Metro’s commitment to climate justice drives every step of our transition to zero emissions. Learn what we’ve already achieved and what’s next.
2004
Became the first public transit agency in North America to adopt a diesel hybrid fleet.
2015
Purchased a fleet of 174 zero-emissions trolleys.
2016
Leased and piloted three battery-electric fast charge buses on routes 226 and 241.
2017
Committed to transitioning to a 100% zero-emissions bus fleet powered by renewable energy.
2018 to 2019
Leased and piloted 10 battery-electric buses from three different manufacturers.
2020
Celebrated the retirement of our last diesel bus.
2022
Began Transit System Electrification Planning to inform technical conversion efforts.
Launched South Base Test Facility to pilot new charging technologies and start battery-electric bus operations serving up to 22 routes.
2023
Purchased the last 13 hybrid coaches for RapidRide. All 40 battery-electric buses are now serving South King County. Moving forward, Metro will only purchase battery-electric buses.
2025 to 2026
Open Interim Base at South Campus, fully equipped to service 120 battery-electric buses.
2026 to 2028
Open five opportunity charging locations at Kent/Des Moines Link Station and Burien, Kent, South Renton, and Federal Way transit centers.
2028
Open South Annex Base, Metro’s first Living Building Challenge certified base that will house 250 battery-electric buses.
Restore two portions of Riverton Creek at South Annex Base to support salmon habitat.
2028 to 2035
Construct charging infrastructure at the remaining six existing bases and continue to implement opportunity charging.
2035
Reach zero emissions goal for all modes of transit: Access paratransit, Water Taxi, rideshare, buses, and Metro Flex.
We’re on our way
Our path to a zero-emissions fleet is exciting and rewarding – and it will take time and resources. We’re committed to anticipating challenges before they arise and approaching the work with intentionality and care. We invite you to come along with us.
Want to dive deeper?
Below you’ll find other information related to our transition to zero emissions, including blog posts, reports, and industry-specific resources.
