Switching to electric construction machinery saves two thirds of greenhouse gas emissions.
Vienna (OTS) – The trends towards clean and efficient energy are becoming more and more evident on construction sites, as they are becoming increasingly electric – Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler was able to see this today during a joint visit to a low-emission demonstration construction site with representatives from MIBA Battery Systems, Swietelsky, the construction company Kallinger and members of the Austrian Automotive Transformation Platform (AATP). The charging containers developed by MIBA Battery Systems as part of the fourth “Zero Emission Mobility” (ZEM) tender of the Climate and Energy Fund are currently in use on construction sites in Vienna and Upper Austria and are being subjected to a practical test there. The funding program is funded by the Ministry of Climate Protection (BMK).
The demand for emission-free equipment on construction sites is increasing – not least because there has been a change in the procurement guidelines of public clients since the end of last year. Environmental award criteria must now be given greater consideration in public tenders. As part of the “maxE” project, which aims to cover the daily energy needs of large and daytime construction sites with battery-electric vehicles and machines, mobile charging stations are currently being tested on various construction sites in Upper Austria and Vienna in collaboration with the Swietelsky company. How well these work and how they can be integrated into the existing power grid without causing unwanted feedback is currently being determined in an extensive practical test. It shows that around two thirds of emissions can be saved with the current level of machines and devices available. Although all well-known construction machinery manufacturers now also offer electric machines, charging on civil engineering construction sites has so far been challenging because grid stability must be guaranteed.
Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler: “Electric construction machines are becoming increasingly popular because they not only operate significantly more quietly, but are also more environmentally friendly to operate compared to their fossil-fuel-powered counterparts. When it comes to achieving climate neutrality by 2040, the electrification of construction sites and the switch to e-mobility are crucial.”
Climate and Energy Fund Managing Director Bernd Vogl: “A suitable charging infrastructure is an essential prerequisite for the spread of zero emission technologies. The ‘maxE’ project, which we supported, aims to develop a solution for large construction sites that operate emission-free . The use of electrically powered construction vehicles will be demonstrated. The knowledge gained should also benefit others and contribute to promoting emission-free mobility.”
Stefan was very satisfied GaiggManaging Director of MIBA Battery Systems, with the smoothing of load peaks on the power grid: “We have proven that with additional mobile charging systems we can significantly reduce the connection load for construction sites and yet there are no longer any unwanted feedbacks into the grid.”
“There are adjustments to the construction site processes. For widespread implementation, it is important that recognizable positive effects always go hand in hand with at least consistent productivity and economic advantages. We will see further differentiation of energy sources for medium and large construction equipment. In addition to electrical devices, alternative fuels and hydrogen will become more important,” says Leopold Winkler, head of innovation at Swietelsky. The Upper Austrian construction company has seen increased demand for emission-free equipment on construction sites since the RVS guidelines came into force. CEO Peter cuddling: “Sustainable construction site operations must be thought of holistically. Research projects like ‘maxE’ with equipment manufacturers and industry representatives help us to bring new and more environmentally friendly energy sources to the construction site.”
Additional Information:
Austrian Automotive Transformation Platform (AATP)
Fact sheet on the “maxE” project (pdf)
More pictures in the APA-Fotogalerie
Questions & Contact:
Climate and Energy Fund
Mag. Katja Hoyer
Press and public relations
+43/1/5850390-23
katja.hoyer@klimafonds.gv.at
www.klimafonds.gv.at