JUTC Deploys 204 Alternative Energy Buses Daily

The Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) now deploys 204 buses powered by alternative energy daily.

This fleet comprises 197 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, six fully electric buses, and one range-extended electric vehicle that integrates rechargeable battery technology with diesel capability.

This was disclosed by Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Daryl Vaz, in his contribution to the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 5).

He noted that the JUTC has made steady progress in modernising its fleet, enhancing service delivery, and strengthening governance structures.

“A key pillar of this progress is the transition from traditional diesel to cleaner, more cost-effective energy sources, an approach that has helped us cushion the impact of volatile fuel prices while advancing environmental sustainability,” Mr. Vaz stated.

He advised that plans are under way to procure 100 additional buses to expand and renew the JUTC’s fleet, enhance reliability, and replace aging units.

“The Government will continue to prioritise cleaner and renewable energy options, where feasible, in support of sustainable transport,” the Minister committed.

Mr. Vaz noted that, in line with the transition to cleaner energy, construction of a new natural gas facility at the Spanish Town Depot began in June 2025 and was successfully commissioned in December of the same year.

“Since its commissioning, the facility has been fully operational, playing a critical role in fuelling the buses now at two locations – Portmore and Spanish Town,” he told the House.

On the matter of revenue, the Minister reported that charter earnings for the period April 2025 to January 2026 totalled $121 million, representing an 86 per cent increase over the projected $65 million.

“Revenue passengers for year to date, [as at] January 2026, total $16.3 million, which is 29 per cent below the budget of $22.54. Approximately 39 per cent or $502 million of fare revenue related to smart card usage, and 55 per cent or $8.83 million [passengers] used smart cards to pay fares,” he outlined.

Mr. Vaz further indicated that approximately 41 per cent of adult passengers utilise smart cards, compared with full adoption among concession passengers.

He reported that, as of the end of January, 70 active point-of-sale locations were operating across the Kingston Metropolitan Transport Region (KMTR), including four JUTC top-up points to facilitate the loading and creation of SmartFare cards.

Meanwhile, the Transport Minister noted that collaborative efforts with law enforcement to prevent further losses and safeguard the company’s resources are yielding positive results.

“Since the implementation of these measures, the fare revenue, year-to-date, was $1.42 billion or 12 per cent above the $1.26 billion for the same period last year,” Mr. Vaz told the House.