Wales’ first electric-powered refuse collection vehicle has been launched this week by Newport City Council.
The vehicle, which went into service today, will be used on collection rounds across the city, but in particular will service areas such as Caerleon which the council have designated as priorities in terms of reducing emissions to help improve air quality levels.
The vehicle has been supplied by Dennis Eagle, a refuse collection vehicle manufacturer, and has been purchased with the assistance of Welsh Government, who have provided grant funding for half of the cost via their Circular Economy Fund, with the council paying the other half.
The vehicle will reduce carbon emissions by approximately 25-35 tonnes per year compared to a standard, non-electric vehicle. Newport council is currently working towards the ambition of becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030, and the launch forms part of a wider project to replace the council’s existing vehicles with eco-friendly alternatives.
Cllr Roger Jeavons, deputy leader of the council, said: “I’m delighted that Newport is the first local authority in the country to launch an electric refuse collection vehicle.
“This launch demonstrates our commitment as a council to improving our city’s environment and green credentials, and I look forward to us taking further action to decarbonise our fleet and make Newport a greener place to live.”
Cllr Deb Davies, cabinet member for sustainable development, added: “This sustainable vehicle will not only help us meet our aim of becoming a carbon neutral organisation, but will also benefit many of our residents by reducing emissions and improving the air quality in their wards.
“Actions such as this deliver sustainable benefits across the city, and have a positive impact for both current and future generations, so I’m really pleased to see the vehicle go into service and start delivering those benefits to our residents.”
