Specialist in electric fleet solutions VEV is partnering with local authorities in Greater Cambridge on a project to power electric refuse trucks and help future-proof waste and recycling collections in the area.
Construction of the Waterbeach Renewable Energy Network is underway, bringing together a 1MW solar system with 2MWh battery storage to meet 59% of the energy needed to power the depot and its fleet of new electric waste vehicles.
The battery system will store enough energy to ensure operations can continue smoothly, even when solar generation is low.
Jointly funded by Cambridge City Council, South Cambridgeshire District Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), VEV is delivering 36 high-powered charging points for electric bin lorries and other depot vehicles.
The Greater Cambridge Shared Waste service will operate 18 electric bin lorries by 2027, powered by clean energy generated at Waterbeach.
This scheme is designed to address one of the biggest barriers to fleet electrification: limited local grid capacity.
While four electric refuse trucks are already in use, the existing grid cannot support further expansion without this investment.
By generating and storing renewable energy on site, the project unlocks the ability to scale up electrification.
Martin Bax, Commercial Director for VEV, said, “This project is a fantastic example of how local authorities can overcome grid constraints and accelerate fleet electrification by thinking holistically about energy and infrastructure.
“The strategic combination of renewable energy, battery storage and smart charging will enable the council teams to put the foundations in place for a cleaner, more resilient waste fleet while delivering a measurable reduction in emissions for the region.”
