Sweden’s largest fossil-free construction site has reached a milestone, achieving 50% electric operation with equipment supplied by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE). The project, aimed at redeveloping the historic Slakthusområdet area in central Stockholm, highlights progress in sustainable construction technologies.
The initiative, which began in mid-2024, uses electric machinery including two Volvo EC230 Electric crawler excavators, a Volvo L120H Electric Conversion wheel loader, and two electric trailer trucks. The current phase of the project aims to cut CO₂ emissions to below 3.5 tonnes per SEK 1 million turnover, a significant reduction from the industry average of 11-29 tonnes.
“In the City of Stockholm, we recognize the vital role we must play in accelerating the transition to fossil-free construction sites,” said Anders Österberg, Stockholm’s Deputy Mayor and Chair of the City Development Committee. “The City of Stockholm has a goal of becoming climate positive by 2030.”
Volvo CE’s Fredrik Tjernström emphasized the effectiveness of electric machinery in reducing emissions, stating, “The first phase showed the effectiveness of electric machines in performing tasks while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.” Project Manager Anna Göransdotter from Skanska added, “This proactive approach creates a ripple effect throughout the entire value chain, pushing all stakeholders to explore new possibilities.”
The redevelopment, set to complete in 2025, is viewed as a blueprint for sustainable urban development, with hopes that its methods will be adopted in future projects.
