Amey teams working at the MOD’s UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) in Taunton, have introduced a fleet of battery powered grounds maintenance equipment that will transform the service we deliver and support our client’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
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 and are already proving to be a hit.
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 we’ve recruited a new, full-time Groundsman to the on-site Amey team who can manage the extensive grounds service and ensure that safety remains at the forefront of work planning. We’ve also upskilled one of our logistics team members who will provide annual leave and sickness cover when required.
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. The bringing in-house of the actual labour should enable greater flexibility and enhance a greater sense of ownership in the grounds activities that are necessary in the shared pride we all wish to promote with our HQ facilities.”
Following the successful roll out at UKHO, we’re now working with our clients on the Avon & Somerset Courts contract with plans to replicate the initiative at their regional headquarters and courthouses in North Somerset and Bristol.