Revolutionizing Construction with Electric Machines
First Phase: Achieving a 50% Electric Threshold
Two years ago, the construction site in Sweden set an ambitious goal of reaching a 10% electric equipment operation. Last week, this goal was surpassed as a new Volvo L120H Electric Conversion wheel loader was added to the site. Alongside this, a pair of 30-ton Volvo EC230 Electric excavators were already in operation. This low-emission job site has captured international attention due to its unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation.
As of June 2024, the project has already achieved a significant CO₂ “savings” of 2,759 tons. This is equivalent to about 600 Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars driving a full year. This remarkable feat, which is the first phase of the multiyear plan, earned the project a prestigious “Sustainable Construction Project of the Year” award at the annual Swedish Green Building Awards.
Second Phase: Reducing Carbon Emissions Even Further
In the second phase of the project, set to kick off in mid-2025, the goal is to reduce harmful carbon emissions even more. The target is to reduce emissions to under 3.5 tons of CO₂ per SEK 1 million turnover (approximately 1 ton of CO₂ for every $250-265,000 in revenue). This represents a dramatic decrease from the typical 11 to 29 tons of carbon and diesel emissions seen in similar projects.
When municipalities like Stockholm City prioritize carbon reduction in contract awards, it sets an inspiring precedent for other regions. It also drives innovation across the construction industry, creating a ripple effect throughout the entire value chain. This proactive approach encourages all stakeholders to explore new possibilities and expand the boundaries of what can be achieved in sustainable construction.
Adding to the Electric Portfolio
In addition to the battery-powered machines, two electric semi trucks with trailers will join the job site. A Volvo electric truck provided by Bellman Group is set to arrive in early 2025. An electrically-powered sorting tool, electric compaction tools, mobile charging infrastructure, and hand-operated electric machines also complete the job site's e-portfolio.
We at Electrek are excited to learn more about these big electric machines and the significant reduction in emissions they bring to the places we live, work, and play. Back in October, we interviewed Sylvie Binder from the New York City Mayor's Office about a similar effort in NYC backed by the newly launched North American Electric Construction Coalition (NAECC), which is committed to decarbonizing the construction industry. You can check out that interview above and share your thoughts on Volvo's role in decarbonizing the world's job sites in the comments.