In a bid to tackle emissions in the construction industry, the Norwegian business development agency Enova has launched two programs. These initiatives aim to promote the use of emission-free construction machines and mobile charging stations to power them.
As reported by Businessportal Norwegen, the programs will run for two years. Under the first program, the purchase of electric construction machinery will be subsidized up to 40% of the additional cost compared to a similar machine with a conventional drive. The subsidy is, however, capped at NOK 5 million, which is approximately €438,000.
Under the second program, mobile charging stations with integrated buffer batteries will be subsidized up to 40% of the investment costs, with the upper limit set at NOK 2 million (about €175,000). For eligibility, the battery must have a minimum energy content of 70 kWh, and the charging station must provide a minimum of 100 kW charging power.
The additional subsidy for charging stations with battery storage is essential for the use of electric construction machines. Typically, during the early stages of construction projects, such as civil engineering activities, heavy excavators and wheel loaders are used, and the power supply at the construction site is often not yet well-developed. Therefore, the buffer batteries can be slowly recharged by low voltage, which can quickly recharge the batteries of the construction machines.
These programs are an important step towards reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry and promoting a sustainable future. By encouraging the use of emission-free machinery, Enova is setting an example for the construction industry worldwide.
