Yorkshire Water has switched to only using electricity from renewable sources and set wheels in motion for 20 per cent of its operational fleet of vans to be electric by 2020.
The move will further shrink the water company's aim to reduce its carbon footprint. All of the electricity it uses to power its operational sites is now generated from renewable sources, supplied by ENGIE.
The company has also bought its first 10 electric vans and by 2020 at least 40 more will be bought to help reduce carbon emissions by five per cent. The drive towards electric vehicles has led to being the first in the water sector to be granted ‘Go Ultra Low’ fleet accreditation, a government and industry campaign to promote the benefits of electric vehicles.
Andy Clark, Head of Procurement at Yorkshire Water, said:
“We’re really excited to be starting our journey towards a vehicle fleet entirely powered by renewable energy and are proud to achieve the prestigious ‘Go Ultra Low’ status. As a sustainability-focussed business we recognise the need to lower our carbon footprint and play our part in delivering clean air in our towns and cities across Yorkshire.”
The innovation funded project will help offset 140 tonnes of carbon emissions per year and generate cost savings of around £536,000 over the seven-year life span of the vehicles.
Robin Heap, Head of Electric Vehicles Infrastructure at ENGIE, said:
‘We are delighted to be able to support Yorkshire Water’s decarbonisation and air quality improvement targets. ENGIE is already working in partnership with Yorkshire Water to deliver significant energy and cost reductions and this is another really positive step in achieving their sustainable energy strategy.’
Currently, Yorkshire Water generates 12 per cent of its own electricity from renewable sources such as anaerobic digestion. The electric vehicles, which have a range of 70-100 miles before needing to be re-charged, will support Leeds City Council’s Clean Air Zone proposals as it aims to reduce air pollution in the city.
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