"Addressing CO2 Emissions: Imperative for Electrifying Construction Machinery"

The critical necessity of electrifying construction machinery is underlined by site equipment emits an equivalent amount of CO2 annually as the aviation sector, with excavators accounting for a staggering 50% of this emission.

(Vinci)

In response to this environmental concern, energy efficiency specialist Danfoss has released a comprehensive whitepaper that underscores the urgent requirement for transitioning construction machinery to electric power. This publication not only emphasizes the gravity of the situation but also offers insights into potential improvements and the advantageous outcomes of implementing recommended strategies. The focus of the study is particularly on excavators, which present unique challenges in terms of reducing carbon emissions. Unlike many other vehicle types, these heavy-duty machines pose complications for electrification due to the necessity of frequent recharging or battery swapping during operation. Furthermore, the substantial battery weight required to power them is a significant hindrance.

However, Danfoss suggests that substantial gains can be achieved by concentrating on enhancing efficiency through the reduction of engine size. This approach could potentially lead to a nearly 25% decrease in the required battery capacity for electrifying excavators. Simultaneously, fuel consumption could be slashed by up to 30%, and an impressive 15 tons of weight could be eliminated from the overall mass. The whitepaper's findings highlight a pathway to alleviate the environmental impact of construction machinery, specifically excavators. By tackling the efficiency of these machines and addressing their electrification challenges, the construction industry could substantially curtail its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.