Emissions from the construction industry: first steps towards the zero emissions target
Construction sites and the construction industry itself are major emitters of CO2, particulate matter and other substances that contribute to air pollution in environmental zones and urban centres in general. However, the industry has already taken important steps towards zero emissions and climate neutrality: construction vehicles are becoming increasingly electric!
Electrification in the construction machinery industry is a trend that is becoming increasingly important with regard to the zero emissions target. Especially in low emission zones and in terms of air quality, the electrification of construction machinery can make a significant difference.
The suitability of electric motors and lithium-ion batteries for small construction machines has already been proven. A good example of this is the Cat 301.9 electric mini excavator, which is equipped with a 48V/32 kWh lithium-ion battery. These excavators are particularly suitable for specific tasks such as cable trenches or paving work and can cope with a working day with limited intensive phases of use and longer downtimes. The market for electric mini excavators offers an impressive variety and a wide range of products for different requirements.
The challenge is to provide sufficient battery capacity even for medium-sized machines without compromising the mobility and efficiency of the machines. The question of charging infrastructure and energy requirements on construction sites also plays an important role here. However, the CAT 906 electric wheel loader, which is equipped with a 300 volt lithium-ion battery and a capacity of 64 kilowatt hours, shows that this is possible. Thanks to the integrated onboard charger, the battery can be recharged efficiently, which extends the machine's operating time.
For heavy and large construction machines, which often have long working hours and are used in remote locations, the situation is more complicated. In addition to the high costs, there is also the challenge of a suitable charging infrastructure. In these cases, transportable, CO2-neutral fuels or alternative technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells could offer a solution.
Of course, the road to zero emissions and climate neutrality in the construction machinery industry is still a long one, but great progress has already been made. In order to meet the requirements of different vehicles and construction situations, a mix of different technologies will probably become established in the future. This will not only help to improve air quality and reduce CO2 emissions, but could also increase efficiency and flexibility on construction sites.