Stevenage Borough Council’s refuse lorries have gone green, after having solar panels fitted to help reduce emissions.
The move is part of the council’s commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Thanks to a partnership with TRAILAR, seven vehicles have been fitted with solar panels. The panels are mounted on the roof of the lorries and power the onboard electric system, which will save fuel and lower emissions. This move will save over 19 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
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Councillor Simon Speller, portfolio holder for environment and climate change, said: “By installing solar panels on our refuse lorries, we’re taking a significant step towards being more sustainable for Stevenage and for our residents.
“This is the latest move that demonstrates our dedication to finding solutions to tackle climate change and reduce our carbon footprint, and will help us to reach our target of net zero by 2030.”
TRAILAR specialises in providing optimised solar solutions, specifically for use within a transport setting, to both the private and public sector.
Its use of solar allows cost and environmentally conscious fleet operators to decarbonise diesel fuelled vehicles or support the operation of electric.
Paul Horton at TRAILAR said: “In this instance partnering with Stevenage Council on their refuse collection vehicles, we have installed optimised CIGS technology solar and management, utilising 100 per cent clean and renewable energy within in the vehicle’s operation, replacing the reliance on the vehicle to create energy itself by burning fuel and emitting CO2.
“Working with forward think councils like Stevenage is a real pleasure, and we understand the challenges in taking local services to net zero and can fully support with quality products, installation and lifetime data, allowing the council to make the most efficient use of these vehicles for years to come, serving local communities.
“We very much look forward to supporting and growing our relationship with Stevenage over the coming years.”
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