The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) actively endorsed a strategic plan during its Ordinary Meeting, paving the way to transition fleet assets to electric vehicles. This plan, known as the ‘Fleet Transition to Sustainable Fuel Action Plan,’ was adopted today and served as a blueprint for the Council’s strategic shift towards sustainable fuel assets. According to Cr Carol Taylor, the Chair of TRC’s Infrastructure Services Portfolio, this adoption marks a significant milestone in the Council’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.
“Sustainability is one of the five goals of TRC as an organisation under our Corporate Plan, and to deliver on that commitment back to our community, we must look at all avenues to become more sustainable, which includes transitioning our fleet to alternative fuel sources over time.” Cr Taylor said.
During its proactive journey, the Council has acknowledged its possession of approximately 700 light and heavy vehicles and 1,100 earthmoving, mowing, and other equipment assets, which hold the potential for future transitioning to sustainable fuels. The adopted Action Plan will be integrated into the Fleet and Logistics Business Plan, establishing a framework for evaluating the feasibility of transitioning each fleet asset playfully.
As part of the transition process, the Council has already initiated trials for electric vehicles, mowers, and other equipment, actively engaging in learning from these initial implementations to facilitate the overall transition of fleet assets to sustainable fuel sources.
Recognising the need for a more sustainable fleet today, the Council actively utilises feedback, industry benchmarking, and experiences from various local government areas across Australia to implement a robust plan. This plan ensures the continued delivery of expected community services while reducing the Council’s carbon footprint. As highlighted by Cr Taylor, the strategic plan extends beyond electric vehicles, encompassing the implementation of other technologies throughout the next decade or beyond.
Furthermore, the strategic plan encompasses the gradual deployment of charging infrastructure across Council facilities and the revision of internal policies and procedures to align with using these vehicles and equipment, thus actively supporting the transition process.
Analysis source: Toowoomba Regional Council
