Greece Begins Dismantling Trolleybus Cables in Piraeus, Ushering in Electric Bus Era

End of an Era: Piraeus Bids Farewell to Trolleybus Network

Greece has begun the process of dismantling its overhead trolleybus power cables in Piraeus, signaling a major transition in its public transportation system. This move, which started on Sunday, December 7, 2025, marks the end of an era for a network that has served the urban fabric for over 70 years. The initiative is part of a broader plan to modernize the country's transport infrastructure, replacing traditional trolleybuses with advanced electric buses.

Historical Context and the Transition's Commencement

The trolleybus system has been an integral part of the Athens-Piraeus area's public transport history since its inception. The first trolleybus line in Greece began operation in 1948 on the Piraeus–Kastella route, with the modern electric trolleybus system officially established in 1954, connecting Athens to Piraeus. For decades, these vehicles provided emission-free transit. The current dismantling project commenced in Piraeus, specifically along Akti Miaouli, a coastal area where dense cable clusters have been identified as contributing to traffic congestion.

Modernization Driven by Economic and Aesthetic Benefits

The decision to remove the extensive overhead wiring network is driven by several factors, including the desire for a more modern, cost-efficient, and visually cleaner transport system. Deputy Transport Minister Konstantinos Kyranakis highlighted the economic advantages, stating that operating an electric bus costs approximately €2.5 per kilometer, significantly less than the €5.5 per kilometer for a trolleybus, representing a reduction of over 50%. This transition is projected to save €20 million in maintenance and network replacement expenses. Piraeus Mayor Giannis Moralis also welcomed the shift, emphasizing its economic and aesthetic benefits for the city.

The Future of Greek Public Transport

The overhaul involves the removal of approximately 70% of the capital's 143-kilometer trolleybus wire system, a process expected to take 18 months. While a significant portion of the network will be dismantled, cables will be retained on major thoroughfares such as Patission, Acharnon, Alexandras, Mesogion, and Singrou to maintain a select number of services. The existing trolleybus lines 17 and 20 in Piraeus have already been replaced by new electric buses, with the transition gradually extending across Piraeus and Athens.

The Athens Urban Transport Organization (OASA) has acquired 140 new electric buses, with approximately 60 already in daily operation. Plans are in place to replace 130 aging trolleybuses with 100 new battery-electric buses by 2027, aiming for a total of 250 electric buses in the coming years. Officials have assured that public services will continue without disruption, and no jobs will be lost; instead, new drivers will be hired, and salaries are expected to increase, leading to more frequent and reliable services. The removal of overhead cables in Piraeus will also facilitate the expansion of tram services, allowing the tram to reach its terminal stop directly outside the port.