The first fully electrified construction site in Europe is in Sweden

A Swedish pre-school will be built without gas-powered machines or tools.

In today's rapidly changing world, sustainability has become a paramount concern for individuals, industries, and governments alike. As the world strives to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change, it is essential to explore innovative solutions in every sector, including construction. Construction sites, often associated with noise, pollution, and emissions, are now being transformed into beacons of sustainability through electrification.

One shining example of this green transition is the ?stersund Preschool Project, a collaborative effort that has fully electrified a construction site. This groundbreaking initiative not only showcases the advantages of using electric construction equipment but also highlights the role of digitalization in establishing sustainable construction practices.

The new preschool in ?stersund, Sweden, is set to become the first fully electrified construction site in the EU, marking an important milestone in sustainable construction practices. By using electric machinery instead of traditional fossil fuel-powered equipment, this project aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability in the construction industry.

This initiative is a result of a collaboration between the ?stersund municipality, Fossilfritt Sweden, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Skanska, a major construction company in Sweden. It showcases the importance of partnerships and collective efforts in achieving sustainable goals.

The expansion of the preschool will allow for a larger capacity, accommodating 144 children compared to the current 54. This demonstrates how sustainable practices can go hand in hand with growth and development. The build is expected to be finished at the end of 2025.

Electrifying construction sites like this one can serve as a model for future projects, encouraging other municipalities and companies to prioritize sustainability in their construction practices. By showcasing the benefits of electric machinery, such as lower carbon emissions and reduced noise, this project highlights the potential for innovation and technology to transform traditional industries towards more sustainable practices.

The electrification of construction sites not only benefits the environment but also improves air quality for workers and nearby communities. By replacing diesel-powered machinery with electric alternatives, the emission-free workplace contributes to a healthier and cleaner working environment.

The project is also in line with the goals of Climate Leaders, a municipal network in Sweden focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability. It aligns with the efforts of Nordic cities to lower CO2 emissions and showcases the changing public procurement and standards in favor of sustainability.

By establishing an emission-free workplace, the municipality is taking a significant step towards its goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. The electrification of work equipment on the construction site is a crucial aspect of this transition.

Advantages of using electric construction equipment

The adoption of electric construction equipment offers numerous advantages, particularly in the context of cities and municipalities striving to meet tough environmental requirements and combat climate change. These zero-emission electric machines have the potential to significantly reduce emissions compared to their fossil-fueled counterparts.

Preliminary research conducted by Skanska reveals that approximately 95 percent of work equipment could be electric, leading to a reduction of about 64 tons of CO2 emissions. This statistic highlights the immense potential for electric construction equipment to contribute to environmental sustainability.

The municipality of ?stersund in Sweden serves as an excellent example of a proactive approach towards climate goals. ?stersund aims to achieve climate-neutrality, fossil-free building operations, and energy efficiency by 2030, with its municipal organization transitioning to fossil-free and energy-efficient practices by 2025. As part of this commitment, ?stersund has embraced the use of electric construction equipment in various projects, such as the construction of new preschools.

?stersund's preschool project demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of electrification in construction. By relying solely on electric machinery, the project showcases the potential of converting from fossil fuels to greener alternatives. This initiative not only aligns with the municipality's climate goals but also serves as an inspiration for other cities and organizations seeking sustainable construction practices.

The benefits of electric construction equipment extend beyond reducing carbon emissions. These machines also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient construction process. Electric equipment operates with reduced noise levels, minimizing disturbances in urban environments. Additionally, advancements in technology enable enhanced efficiency and versatility on job sites, further improving productivity.

Digitalization plays a crucial role in establishing sustainable practices in construction. By leveraging digital tools and technologies, construction professionals can optimize resource allocation, streamline operations, and reduce waste. This integration of technology and sustainability is essential in achieving the long-term goals of decarbonization and environmental preservation.

The fully electrified construction site in ?stersund is an energizing (??) example of the transformative power of sustainable practices in the construction industry. By embracing electric construction equipment and leveraging digitalization, this project has not only reduced emissions and pollution but has also paved the way for a greener future.