Volvo e-wheel loader on the job for Suez

Waste and recycling firm Suez is using a Volvo L25 electric compact wheel loader at its material recovery facility (MRF) in Bodmin, England. The machine was provided by United Kingdom-based dealership SMT GB.

Suez’s use of the electric-powered wheel loader is part of a companywide drive toward cleaner, safer and more efficient daily operation.

“Suez aims to go beyond net zero to become carbon positive by 2040, eliminating more carbon than it produces,” SMT GB says, adding that integrating electric plant and fleet vehicles into daily operations is one of several initiatives adopted to move the company toward its goal.

During a site redevelopment in Bodmin, Suez identified the L25 Electric as a potential asset, allowing ample time for a comprehensive quoting and order process with SMT GB, according to the dealership.

A process that typically can take three to six months was supported by SMT GB’s Craig Howard, who helped advise Suez on the most suitable charging setup for their operational requirements.

Following what SMT GB calls a successful trial at a Suez site in Redruth, England, confidence in the L25 Electric’s performance grew, ensuring its seamless integration at the Bodmin facility, according to the dealership.

As of June, the battery-electric loader has been in operation for eight months, engaged in tasks including pushing loose mixed paper onto feed conveyors, fluffing materials and preparing them for baling.

Because MRFs can contain plenty of noise-emitting equipment, the L25 Electric has been considered a welcome addition because of its minimal noise, according to SMT GB. The model’s zero tailpipe emissions also contribute to a safer and cleaner workspace, adds the firm.

What the equipment provider calls minor infrastructure changes made to accommodate the L25 Electric included upgrading an existing electrical socket so it could host an external 17-kilowatt fast charging station.

SMT credits its Electromobility Business Manager Shaun Sisterson for playing a vital role in supporting both Suez and vendor teams to help facilitate a smooth transition to electric machinery while his colleague, Shaun Geer, led training sessions to help machine operators to adapt and to optimize their productivity levels.

“The electric machine has seamlessly fitted into our operations,” Suez Site Manager Ian Broad says. “As we operate in two shifts, we run the machine in the morning, fast charge it during the lunch break, and then continue operations until the end of the shift. We then slow charge it overnight.”

The Volvo CE L25 Electric increases operator safety through what SMT GB calls all-round visibility from its spacious cab, while the minimal noise output can provide for clearer communication.

SMT GB says previously at the MRF, two diesel-powered machines performed the same tasks now handled by the Volvo L25 Electric.

“Additionally, operators have found pre-start checks to be quicker and more straightforward than with diesel models, allowing for a more streamlined start to each shift,” the dealership says.

Following the success of the initial machine, SMT GB anticipates further opportunities for larger Volvo electric machinery, including the L120 Electric and L90 Electric loaders, at the Bodmin site and other Suez locations.