With a strong focus on sustainability and efficient energy management, the new equipment, which includes one sit-on battery mower; one battery push mower; one short trimmer; one long-reach strimmer; one battery-operated blower and a battery-operated chemical sprayer, were delivered at the beginning of March.
Dave Kerslake, Amey’s account manager, said: “Although it’s early days, we can already see the benefits that the equipment is providing to both Amey and the client. In terms of cost, we no longer need to purchase diesel for the mowers as they all work off a normal 240V battery supply, which is better for the environment, plus a reduction in contractor costs, but there is a wider benefit too. The new machines are much lighter to operate so can be used for longer periods of time. Vibration is reduced and ear defenders are no longer needed due to the significant reduction in noise – something which is also appreciated by the office workers on site.”
The initiative has enabled Amey to bring the grounds maintenance element of the contract ‘in-house’ and it has recruited a new, full-time groundsman to the on-site Amey team who can manage the extensive grounds.
Rick Hodge, head of facilities management at UKHO added: “From a client perspective, I am delighted that Amey has taken the initiative to ‘go electric’ in the delivery of their grounds maintenance support, removing dependency of continued use of fossil fuels, whilst in parallel, reducing air pollution and noise.”
Following the successful roll out at UKHO, Amey is now working with clients on the Avon & Somerset Courts contract with plans to replicate the initiative at their regional headquarters and courthouses in North Somerset and Bristol.