The study “Comparative analysis of legislative and technical regulations on electric public transport in Ukraine and EU countries” was conducted during 2024–2025 by the public organization “Vision Zero” (Ivano-Frankivsk)

The purpose of the study was to identify outdated and overly restrictive regulations that hinder the modernization and reconstruction of transport infrastructure in Ukraine.

For the study, information was collected from Ukrainian and European legislative acts and technical documents (DBN and others). The main countries for comparison were the Czech Republic and Italy, and certain aspects of the experience of Switzerland and Poland were also considered.

The analysis covers key areas such as:

• requirements for tram tracks;
• energy supply systems;
• contact networks;
• rolling stock.

Prerequisites

As of 2021, Ukraine had 41 trolleybus and 18 tram systems, as well as three metro lines. The war significantly damaged infrastructure and rolling stock. It also exacerbated long-standing problems: insufficient funding , poor service levels , staffing challenges , and cuts to local budgets .

After the war, cities will have to decide: either let electric transport fall into disrepair, or make significant efforts to rebuild and modernize it. Due to the huge financial needs, cities will not be able to do this on their own. External resources will be needed for recovery: grants , loans , and public-private partnerships .

The main challenge will be not only finding funds, but also institutional capacity . It will be difficult for cities to prepare high-quality projects that would meet the requirements of both Ukraine and international partners.

Methodology

Determining the focus of the study: Specific aspects were chosen on which to focus to make the study purposeful.

Primary data collection: The Ministry of Community, Territorial and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine collected proposals from the heads of electric transport utilities and officials of cities with tram and trolleybus systems. This data was then received by the NGO "Vision Zero" for further analysis.

Carrying out additional activities to collect information:

• The NGO "Vision Zero" organized three roundtables (in 2022-2024) to discuss the norms and rules for the development of electric transport infrastructure.
• Study visits were made to four cities in Ukraine.
• Expert interviews were conducted with practicing specialists.

Summary and discussion of results: The collected data and suggestions were discussed during online meetings.

The results of the study make it clear what changes are needed to implement modern European standards in Ukraine.

Author of the study: Anton Hagen

Project Manager: Viktor Zagreba

Files for viewing and downloading (PDF):

About the project:

The materials were developed within the framework of the project “Reform of Electric Public Transport of Ukraine”, implemented by the NGO “Vision Zero” from August 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. The project was implemented in cooperation with the Association “Energy Efficient Cities of Ukraine” within the framework of grant support from the European Climate Foundation. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in this report lies with the authors of the study. The European Climate Foundation cannot be held responsible for any use of the information presented in this study and does not necessarily share the opinions, assessments and conclusions given in this report.