ENVIRONMENTAL solutions provider SUEZ has introduced a Volvo L25 Electric compact wheel loader at the firm’s Bodmin materials recycling facility in Cornwall.
Integrating electric plant and fleet vehicles into daily operations is one of initiatives the company is undertaking in support of its aim to become carbon positive by 2040.
During a major site redevelopment, SUEZ identified the L25 Electric as a potential asset, allowing time for a quoting and order process with Volvo dealer SMT GB. This process, typically taking 3-6 months, was supported by SMT GB’s Craig Howard from initial quote to final delivery. During this period, additional consultancy was provided to SUEZ to advise the team on the most suitable charging solution for their operational requirements.
Following a successful trial at the sister site in Redruth, confidence in the L25 Electric’s performance grew. The loader has now been in operation for eight months, handling tasks such as pushing loose soft mixed paper onto feed conveyors, fluffing materials, and preparing them for baling.
As recycling facilities are often noisy and odorous environments, the L25 Electric’s minimal noise and zero tailpipe emissions are said to contribute to a ‘quieter, safer, and cleaner’ workspace.
To accommodate the model, the site required only minor infrastructure changes, including upgrading an existing three-phase 400V socket to a 32A connector for the external 17kw fast charging.
Site manager Ian Broad said, “The electric machine has seamlessly fitted into our operations. 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 L25 Electric is also described as increasing safety through ‘excellent’ all-round visibility, the facilitation of clearer communication due to minimal noise, and zero harmful fumes being released.
SMT GB’s demonstrator, Shaun Geer, led training sessions, helping operators adapt and optimise productivity levels. Previously, two diesel-powered machines handled the same tasks, but the Volvo L25 Electric has reduced downtime associated with refuelling and AdBlue usage. Additionally, operators have found pre-start checks to be quicker and more straightforward than with diesel models.
Since the deployment of the L25 Electric at Bodmin, SUEZ has continued to explore additional electric machine integrations across its facilities, including a request for a similar machine at a sister site undergoing redevelopment.
SMT GB anticipates further opportunities for larger Volvo electric machinery such as the L120 Electric and L90 Electric at this site and other SUEZ locations.
