- Operational Services Division
Spring is just around the corner, and, like many other organizations, you may be considering a transition to battery-powered landscaping equipment (BPLE).
Here are some compelling reasons to get started:
- Reduce GHG Emissions - Traditional equipment relies on the combustion of fossil fuels, resulting in the release of Greenhouse gases (GHG). A 10-horsepower commercial walk-behind mower, for example, emits some 23lbs. of CO2 per hour.1 Switching to battery-electric alternatives eliminates these onsite emissions.
-
Lower Maintenance and Fuel Costs - Gasoline- and petroleum-powered equipment require regular oil changes, engine maintenance and part replacements, air filter changes, and more, in addition to fuel costs. Much of this care and maintenance cost is avoided in battery-powered equipment.
-
Improve Health and Wellness - The lack of direct emissions from electric landscaping equipment eliminates harmful fumes and particulate matter from the vicinity during use. Other benefits include reduced noise levels and irksome vibrations, no need to store hazardous chemicals, and overall ease of use and equipment care.
Information provided by the Department of Energy Resources’ Leading by Example Program.
Calculate Your Savings and GHG Emission Reductions
The Leading by Example Program, Quiet Communities, and the Operational Services Division collaborated to develop a Commercial Battery-Powered Electric Calculator that estimates the cost savings associated with converting from gas to electric, as well as reductions in greenhouse emissions. This tool recently was updated to include default values for many types of equipment, so try it out to calculate your potential savings and planetary benefits today!
FAC116 Statewide Contract BPLE Resources
Once your organization is ready to move forward, use the FAC116 Lawns and Grounds Equipment Statewide Contract to maximize savings opportunities (view the list of eligible entities who may purchase from Statewide Contracts). FAC116 offers residential- and commercial-grade battery-powered push mowers, walk-behind mowers, ride-on mowers, zero-turn mowers, blowers, snow-throwers, and string trimmers, for example, for both purchase and lease. Battery-powered golf carts and utility vehicles are available, as well. We encourage you to watch the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s video highlighting how they manage their trail maintenance with all-electric chainsaws – also available on contract.
Buyers may reference the commercial-grade battery-powered equipment specifications posted in COMMBUYS and may include these specifications when you reach out to Statewide Contract Vendors for quotes. The specifications include equipment certifications, commercial-grade power, durability, noise levels, run time, warranties, and more.
Explore Mass Save for commercial BPLE rebates. Executive Agencies may test out some BPLE via the Tool Barn Program.
Reach the FAC116 Contract Manager Michael Barry with questions.
1 Calculations provided through the Commercial Battery-Powered Electric Equipment Calculator.
