Seneca, South Carolina Wins Municipal Award for All-Electric Bus Fleet

The city of Seneca’s all-electric bus fleet continues to grab attention as the first of its kind in the country.

Seneca recently received an achievement award from the Municipal Association of South Carolina for its work on the bus system.

The city won in the public service category and was among more than 20 cities and towns that submitted their projects and initiatives.

City officials accepted the award during the association’s annual meeting July 18.

The municipal association, which serves and represents 270 incorporated municipalities in the state, said in a press release

“Seneca can boast that it’s the first city in the state and country with an all-electric fleet, which includes its five electric buses built by Greenville-based Proterra Inc.”

By switching to the all-electric system, Seneca is reportedly saving $45,000 in diesel costs and even more in fleet maintenance, the association said. Officials said the project has also eliminated the emission of 640 tons of greenhouse gases annually.

The recognition goes beyond the state level. The association reported officials have also been honored at the White House for their innovation.

“It was nice to be recognized for something of this nature,” Halbig said. “I know the state had also been recognized for their part in this electric bus system. It’s nice to be recognized, but the work continues as always.”

Earlier this year, the city dedicated its bus terminal, located at site of the former Propex plant, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony full of community members, state and local leaders.

During the last few years, Seneca has seen double-digit increases in ridership and created 23 permanent jobs with the project, the municipal association said.

Officials are now looking to expand those benefits, as well as bus routes, to riders across Oconee County.