The refuse collection industry is currently facing increasing pressure to reduce its carbon emissions, with electrification of collection vehicles emerging as a pivotal strategy in achieving these sustainability goals. Tony Giles, the Alternative Fuels Product Manager at Environmental Solutions Group, notes that refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) are among the most emission-intensive vehicles due to their frequent daily operation and relatively low fuel economy. With an average annual fuel consumption of about 10,000 gallons, refuse collection presents a significant opportunity for emissions reduction.
According to Giles, the necessity of improving the livelihoods of communities through decreased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a primary motivator behind this push for electrification. Beyond emissions, the benefits extend to reduced noise pollution, enhancing the quality of life in communities that are serviced by waste collection operations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) correlates the fuel consumption of RCVs with substantial carbon emissions, highlighting that 10,000 gallons of diesel equates to approximately 101.8 metric tons of CO2.
The operational complexity of refuse collection routes, which vary by total miles, payload weight, topography, and the number of collections, necessitates a data-driven approach to electrification. Fleet managers are advised to optimally analyse their specific routes to ascertain whether electric RCVs can effectively meet their needs. Giles elucidates various scenarios based on data analysis, categorizing routes into three distinct situations concerning their suitability for electrification.
Scenario 1 represents routes that can readily accommodate existing electric vehicle capabilities, potentially leading to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions—up to 100 metric tons per vehicle annually. However, the reality is that many routes might fit into Scenario 2 or Scenario 3, where current electric vehicle technology may not adequately handle the energy demands without compromising productivity. Charging infrastructure and availability further complicate the transition to full electrification, often necessitating substantial investments before electric vehicles can be deployed.
For those operations considering alternatives, Giles suggests electric side loader bodies (eASLs) as a viable solution. These units feature an independent battery system, reducing reliance on traditional fuel consumption and enhancing operational efficiency. By integrating into existing diesel or compressed natural gas operations, eASLs promise significant GHG reduction—up to 36.2 metric tons annually per vehicle, without necessitating major changes to overall fleet structure.
For routes classified under Scenario 3—where existing electric chassis energy and range fall short—eASLs offer the potential to overcome these limitations. Thanks to their dedicated power supply for vehicle movement, the range of eRCVs could be improved, effectively reclassifying previously challenging routes under Scenario 1 standards.
Giles emphasises the importance of a thorough understanding of specific operational variables in determining the right sustainability strategy. Partnering with equipment suppliers who operate with a data-driven methodology can facilitate informed decision-making for fleet managers navigating the complexities of electrification.
As the waste collection industry progresses towards a more sustainable future, the technological advancements in battery power and electric vehicles are likely to play a central role. While immediate solutions such as eASLs can significantly reduce fossil fuel dependency, ongoing developments in electric vehicle capabilities could further transform refuse collection practices in the coming years, shaping the landscape of the industry for the better.
Source: Noah Wire Services