Greenhouse gas emissions from transportation account for 60% of Seattle’s carbon footprint, which means developing emission reduction solutions in the transportation sector critically important. We have two strategies for reducing these emissions; fewer car trips and cleaner car trips. We’re working to electrify our transportation system – trolley buses, light rail, streetcars, and vehicles. Electric-powered transportation is particularly attractive in Seattle where our electricity is effectively carbon neutral, thanks in large part to City Light's commitment to conservation and renewables.

Beyond cars, here's some of Seattle's other electric transportation.

Light Rail

On July 18, 2009, Sound Transit opened the first of what will be a 55-mile, electric light rail line. The segment, known as Central Link, is 14 miles and serves a number of neighborhoods including of Downtown Seattle, the International District, Beacon Hill, Columbia City, and Tukwila.

Seattle Streetcar

On December 12, 2007, the City of Seattle and King County Metro opened the first segment of the Seattle Streetcar Network. The electric-powered South Lake Union Streetcar is 2.6 miles and connects the growing neighborhood of South Lake Union with Downtown Seattle and Central Link. Funding for a second segment, up First Hill, was included in the Sound Transit 2 package passed by voters in 2008.

Trolley Buses

King County Metro boasts a fleet of 146 electric trolley buses that provide clean and quiet on Metro’s heaviest routes.