Green Bay unveils battery electric bus in time for NFL Draft

GREEN BAY, WI—(WGBW)— The City of Green Bay unveiled its first battery electric bus, or BEB, Monday. The bus will be part of the Downtown to Titletown shuttle service during the NFL Draft 2025. It will give residents and visitors a cleaner, quieter transit option during a hectic week in the city.

The BEB is a zero-emission bus, marking a significant milestone in Green Bay’s commitment to sustainable transportation. 

“Introducing our first battery electric bus during the NFL Draft is a proud moment for Green Bay. It demonstrates our community’s leadership in clean transportation and our unwavering commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future,” said Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich. “This bus is just the beginning of our journey toward a carbon-neutral Green Bay.”

While each electric bus costs $1.2 million, the transition is expected to lower long-term operating costs and reduce environmental impacts. The use of electric buses during the NFL Draft highlights Green Bay’s leadership in integrating clean energy into everyday life. It highlights the city’s dedication to building a sustainable future.

Funding for this inaugural electric bus was authorized through federal Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) dollars by the Brown County Planning Commission. The city’s broader “Clean Energy Green Bay Plan” aims for 100% renewable energy and community-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. This first BEB is part of a phased transition, with plans to acquire three additional buses in 2026 and two more in 2027, supported by state and federal grants.

“This electric bus is a major step forward for Green Bay’s transit system and our community’s sustainability goals. It’s a visible sign of our leadership in reducing emissions and promoting cleaner, quieter transportation options,” said Green Bay Metro Transit Director Patty Kiewiz.

Battery Electric Bus Fast Facts

Bus Manufacturer: Gillig (U.S.-based, long-time Green Bay Metro partner)

Route Debut: Downtown to Titletown, serving NFL Draft visitors

Cost per Bus: Approximately $1.2 million

Funding: Federal Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), State of Wisconsin VW Mitigation Grant, Federal Transit Administration’s Low or No Emission Grant Program

Fleet Expansion: 3 more BEBs expected in 2026, 2 more in 2027

Battery Electric Bus Environmental Impact

Reducing Emissions

Zero Tailpipe Emissions: The new BEB produces no tailpipe emissions, directly improving local air quality and reducing greenhouse gases compared to diesel buses.

Supporting City Goals: The bus rollout is a key part of Green Bay’s commitment to achieve 100% renewable energy and carbon neutrality community-wide by 2050.

Transportation Emissions Target: The Clean Energy Green Bay Plan sets a 15% reduction in transportation emissions by 2030 as an interim goal.

Broader Benefits: Electric buses help lower noise pollution, making city streets more pleasant for everyone.

Community Support

Strong Public Backing: Over 70% of Green Bay residents support promoting public transit and expanding clean transportation options.

Community Engagement: The Clean Energy Green Bay Plan was developed with input from hundreds of residents, businesses, and local organizations.

Cost Savings and Fiscal Responsibility

Lower Operating Costs

Fuel Savings: Electric buses are significantly more energy-efficient than diesel, reducing annual fuel costs for the city.

Maintenance Savings: Fewer moving parts mean lower maintenance costs—studies show electric buses can cut maintenance expenses by up to 50% compared to diesel models.

Long-Term Investment: While upfront costs are higher, total cost of ownership will be lower over the vehicle’s lifespan.

Battery Electric Bus Funding and Grants

Leveraging Grants: The city secured federal and state grants to offset purchase and infrastructure costs, minimizing the financial burden on local taxpayers.

Sustainable Budgeting: Cost savings from reduced fuel and maintenance can be reinvested in future clean energy and transit improvements.