UK Power Networks and groundworks contractor Falco Construction have collaborated to bring all-electric excavators to projects on the power network.
Two Takeuchi TB20e fully-electric mini excavators will be rolled out in a trial over the next two years, working on excavation work in London, the South East and the East.
After a successful trial, Falco will invest more than £6 million in replacing its 120-strong diesel-powered fleet of excavators with fully electric models.
The environmental benefits could see more than 200 tonnes of CO2e emissions removed from the atmosphere and improve air quality in the areas where they work, if powered from renewable sources, it claimed.
The removal of not just CO2e, but Nitrous Oxide (NOx) and other particulates (PM2.5) will also benefit operators and local communities’ air quality. In addition, the excavators are 13 decibels quieter in comparison to diesel models during normal operations.
The e-diggers’ batteries last up to five days before re-charging, and are back to capacity within hours – reducing the need and cost for constant refuelling.
Katherine Jennings, continuous improvement manager at UK Power Networks, said:
“We are passionate about partnering with our suppliers to drive continuous improvement in the sustainability sphere.
“This is critical, as meaningful change and a just transition can only come about through shared goals and joint initiatives.”
Alan Seyfi, support services director at Falco Construction, added:
“We estimate that replacing our current 120-strong fleet with TB20e’s would directly remove over 200 tonnes of CO2e emissions each year and be a major step forward on our road to Net Zero.”
Mete Coban, London’s deputy mayor for environment and energy said:
“We know that construction vehicles such as diggers contribute significantly to air pollution, which is why the Mayor has tightened standards across London. It’s great to see companies like UK Power Networks and Falco Construction leading the way and rolling out electric diggers.
“Technology like this will help to ensure Londoners, particularly those who live in the most deprived parts of London, can breathe cleaner air while also supporting our work to build a safer, greener London for everyone.”
Image courtesy of UK Power Networks
