The bumpy road from pump to socket

Koenraad Vangoidsenhoven, Managing Director of the Belgian Association of Removers (CBD – BKV: Governing member of FEDEMAC)

Like waste collection service providers, moving companies operate mainly in residential areas. Soon these residential centers will be accessible only to zero emission vehicles. A moving company can learn several valuable lessons from the experience of the waste collector “PreZero” as explained in an article as explained in an article that appeared in the Dutch magazine transport and logistics.

Like waste collection companies, moving companies may also need to transition to zero-emission vehicles as cities implement emission restrictions. It’s essential to plan for this transition well in advance to comply with future regulations.

Preparing employees for the shift to electric or zero-emission vehicles is crucial. Moving companies should invest in training programs to familiarize their staff with new technologies and vehicles. This can include programs like the Zero Emission Truck Academy mentioned in the article.

Having access to charging infrastructure is essential for electric vehicles. Moving companies should assess their operating areas and ensure there are sufficient charging stations available to support their fleet. If not, they may need to collaborate with local authorities or power companies to establish charging facilities.

When operating electric vehicles, it’s vital to calculate the required power capacity accurately. This ensures that there is enough electricity available to charge the fleet without causing disruptions. Moving companies should engage with grid operators to address power capacity issues in areas where they operate.

If access to electricity is limited, moving companies can explore alternative energy sources, such as hydrogen generators or solar panels with battery storage. These solutions can help ensure a reliable power source for electric vehicles.

Investigate the potential benefits of renewable fuel units, which can be obtained by charging electric vehicles at your own location. These units can be sold to organizations involved in fossil fuel production, providing an additional revenue stream.

Consider hydrogen as an energy carrier, especially for vehicles that need to cover longer distances. While hydrogen infrastructure is currently limited, it may become a more viable option in the future as technology advances.

It’s important to be open to trying new technologies and solutions, just as PreZero is testing hydrogen trucks in the Arnhem region. Moving companies should be willing to adapt their fleet and infrastructure as technology evolves.

Align your company’s goals with sustainability and environmental responsibility. PreZero’s ambition to contribute to the circular economy is an excellent example of how businesses can integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations.

In summary, moving companies can learn from PreZero’s experience by proactively addressing the challenges of transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, investing in employee training, ensuring access to charging infrastructure, exploring alternative energy sources, and staying open to innovative solutions as they work towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly operation.