Driving Sustainability: Blevins Solar Project Pilots Electric (EV) Trucks to Transform Construction Operations
In partnership with National Grid Renewables, the Blevins Solar Project in Falls County, Texas, is piloting the roll-out of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce the environmental impact of construction operations. The pilot project, initially met with challenges, has demonstrated the benefits of transitioning to electric trucks, particularly in the renewable energy sector, where diesel and gas-powered equipment are often debated. These vehicles not only avoided over 14,600 lbs CO2e emissions caused by gas-powered vehicles but also offer the added benefit of powering portable tools. This reduces idling time and the need to transport electric generators around the project site.
Currently, the site operates five electric trucks with two chargers, marking a significant step toward greener operations. These EVs are charged at our main field office which takes advantage of renewable energy production on the grid. Over the course of 2024, the trucks have seen over 6,300 site miles driven with over 50% drivetime fuel savings compared to gasoline counterparts.
“The EV truck pilot has demonstrated these vehicles can be valuable assets on certain project sites, offering significant benefits in mobile power supply and reduced emissions. Moreover, these EVs have lower maintenance costs and feature a versatile built-in power supply that can be used to charge cordless tools and help power other equipment on site. However, challenges remain particularly in acquisition costs, charging infrastructure, load capacity, and team member perception,” said Wyatt Aberle, Superintendent II.
As the pilot continues, Mortenson team members are continually evaluating the impact of these trucks on project sites and assessing the viability of use on a larger scale. While sustainability is a key focus, Mortenson is equally committed to providing high-quality equipment that ensures the safety of our team members and the efficiency of our job sites.
The pilot is not just about reducing emissions; it is about setting a precedent for a sustainable energy future. The EV trucks are continuing to prove their utility on job sites, and with the potential to add more chargers, the project is poised for growth. As the pilot progresses, the team is eager to share more data and insights, including fuel savings and CO2e emissions metrics, to further validate the benefits of this green initiative.