The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has committed $2.2 million to help Melbourne councils transition their fleets to electric vehicles, a major step in decarbonising local government operations. This funding will support the Local Council BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) Integration Project, which involves the deployment of 65 light electric vehicles and seven heavy-duty ones across three councils—Wyndham, Moonee Valley, and Brimbank. These BEVs will be used for essential services like waste management and road maintenance.
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The project is a significant move towards Australia’s net-zero emissions goals and part of a broader $8.9 million initiative. According to ARENA CEO Darren Miller, it’s a powerful example of how local councils can lead the way in clean energy adoption. The project also aims to address key challenges, including the costs and technical aspects of fleet electrification, while exploring the best strategies for managing charging infrastructure.
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By the end of the three-year project, which concludes in June 2027, the councils are expected to have learned valuable lessons about overcoming the hurdles of electrification, setting a precedent for other sectors.
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Source: PrimeMoverMag
