Construction work has begun on a pioneering renewable energy initiative that will generate power for electric bin lorries across Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire
An ambitious new solar park is now under construction in Cambridge, after ground breaking took place last week.
photo courtesy of South Cambridgeshire District Council
The £6.1m renewable energy project is being jointly funded by Cambridge City Council, South Cambridgeshire District Council, and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.
As part of the new Waterbeach Renewable Energy Network, a 1 megawatt solar-generating system is being paired with a battery that can store sufficient energy to keep operations running smoothly when there is no or little sun. This system will feed into 36 electric vehicle charging points for use by electric bin lorries and other vehicles at the councils’ Waterbeach depot.
At the moment, four electric bin lorries operate in Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire, but there is not enough capacity in the local grid to expand that provision. By 2027, the Greater Cambridge Shared Waste service will boast 18 electric bin lorries, entirely powered by clean, renewable energy generated on-site.
As a result, the councils are expected significantly reduce carbon emissions from their waste fleets. That’s important because, currently, these are among the highest contributors to the councils’ overall emissions.
The project also aims to help future-proof waste and recycling collections locally.
What’s more, the project is expected to supply 59% of the existing depot’s total energy needs from renewable sources. Measures such as wildflower planting and new hedgerows to create a haven for local wildlife are expected to achieve new gains in biodiversity of more than 40%.
Construction work is being carried out by VEV, a leading provider of electric fleet solutions. It is due for completion at the end of this year, and should pay back its costs within 15 years, by providing free, clean energy.
Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity at Cambridge City Council, says: ‘This is a landmark moment for cleaner, greener waste and recycling collections in Greater Cambridge. This project demonstrates how local councils can lead the way in tackling climate change by investing in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure. Electrifying our waste fleet is a vital step towards meeting our net zero target by 2030 and helping to clean up the air all residents breathe.’
Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, Lead Cabinet Member for Environment at South Cambridgeshire District Council, adds: ‘We’re proud to be part of this innovative project. It’s not just about reducing emissions – it’s about creating a resilient, future-proof system that benefits residents and the environment. It shows what can be achieved through collaboration and ambition.’
Martin Bax, Commercial Director for VEV, says: ‘This project is a fantastic example of how local authorities can overcome grid constraints and accelerate fleet electrification by thinking holistically about energy and infrastructure. We’re proud to be working with the councils and partners to help future-proof waste collection and deliver real, measurable carbon reductions for the region.’
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