Two battery-powered Volvo CE machines are being used for the first time in the National Wildlife Refuge System. The ECR25 Electric compact excavator and L25 Electric compact wheel loader are supporting construction of an accessible trail at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia, with the aim of reducing the impact of the work on local wildlife.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service is building an Ada-accessible path around a pond at the refuge, which includes grasslands, wetlands and woods. The half-mile trail is intended to let wheelchair users access the area. The L25 Electric is helping lay the path, while the ECR25 Electric is digging drainage trenches and assisting with the placement of a viewing platform extending over the water.
Volvo CE says using electric machinery can avoid diesel exhaust and reduce the engine noise and rumble associated with construction equipment. Dr. Ray Gallant, the company’s vice president of product management and productivity, said the project demonstrates its commitment to lowering emissions and offers an example of how electric machines could support a more climate-friendly construction industry.
A portable, solar-powered EV ARC charging system from Beam Global is being used to power the machines, further reducing the project’s carbon footprint, according to the source.
Sources: Electrek.