Slakthusområdet: EVs Pioneer Electric Construction Sites
In the heart of Stockholm, the Slakthusområdet district is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionise the construction industry. With a bold ambition to achieve 50% electric operation, the redevelopment project exemplifies the immense potential for reducing emissions and advancing sustainable urban development. Once aimed at achieving just 10% EV operation, Slakthusområdet is now a pioneering example in the traditionally hard-to-abate construction sector.
Environmental progress on a grand scale
Scheduled for completion by 2025, the Slakthusområdet redevelopment has already achieved remarkable milestones. By mid-2024, the project's initial phase had reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 2,759 tonnes, contributing significantly to Stockholm City's ambitious climate goals of becoming climate-positive by 2030 and fossil-fuel-free by 2040.
The progress highlights how innovation and commitment can align to meet environmental targets.
The Role of EVs on Site
At the forefront of this transformative project is Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE), which has supplied state-of-the-art electric machinery and vehicles to the site.
- Two Volvo EC230 Electric crawler excavators
- One L120H Electric Conversion wheel loader
- Two electric trucks with trailers
- Various electric-powered tools for sorting and compaction
The EVs, affectionately nicknamed Electra, Ellen and Elton, rely on robust charging infrastructure provided by Eviny, which includes two fast chargers and three battery packs.
Fredrik Tjernström, Head of Electromobility Solutions Sales at Volvo CE, highlights the project's significance: "The first phase showed the effectiveness of EVs in performing tasks while significantly reducing CO2 emissions. It is invaluable for city centre projects to help municipalities meet their emission reduction targets, enhance air quality and reduce noise levels for everyone's benefit."
Ambitious sustainability targets
The Slakthusområdet redevelopment targets emissions of less than 3.5 tons of CO2 per SEK 1 million (approximately US$92,000) turnover. It represents a dramatic reduction compared to the 11 to 29 tons typically emitted in similar projects.
Achieving the ambitious target involves several key initiatives, including:
- Transitioning to 100% fossil-fuel-free site operations using HVO100 fuel
- Increasing EV operation from 10% to 50%
- Implementing climate-reduced concrete
- Following stringent carbon calculation guidelines
The efforts drive meaningful reductions in environmental impact while setting new standards for urban construction projects.
Setting a precedent for the industry
The success of the Slakthusområdet project is already influencing the broader construction industry.
Anna Göransdotter, Project Manager at Skanska, highlighted the importance of such initiatives:
"When municipalities like Stockholm City prioritise carbon reduction in contract awards, it not only sets an inspiring precedent for other regions but drives innovation across the construction industry. This proactive approach creates a ripple effect throughout the entire value chain, pushing all stakeholders to explore new possibilities and expand the boundaries of what can be achieved in sustainable construction."
"In the City of Stockholm, we recognise the vital role we must play in accelerating the transition to fossil-free construction sites. The City of Stockholm has a goal of becoming climate-positive by 2030. To reach this goal, we need to continue to require the use of electrically powered construction vehicles and fossil-free construction sites in our procurement."
The Slakthusområdet project serves as a compelling demonstration of how EVs and innovative technologies can redefine construction practices. By prioritising sustainability, Stockholm reduces its carbon footprint and sets a global benchmark for urban development.
As cities worldwide face the challenges of climate change, the success of Slakthusområdet offers an inspiring roadmap for a more sustainable future in construction.
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