Volvo: Leading the Electric Construction Revolution

Stockholm’s Slakthusområdet redevelopment is setting the bar for sustainable construction by incorporating cutting-edge electric machinery and stringent carbon reduction strategies.

The initiative, powered by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE), has already reached 50% electric operation. It highlights the construction sector’s potential for slashing emissions while showcasing innovative approaches that can be replicated globally.

The construction industry, often referred to as a "hard-to-abate" sector, is a significant polluter. Alongside manufacturing, it accounts for more than half of global emissions.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the construction industry is the single largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

However, Stockholm’s Slakthusområdet project is rewriting this narrative, aiming to drastically reduce emissions and pave the way for climate-positive practices.

The Slakthusområdet project, located in Stockholm’s historic meat-packing district, has transitioned from a modest goal of 10% electric machine operation to an ambitious 50% target. This leap has been achieved through an expanded fleet of electric construction equipment from Volvo CE.

Volvo calls the project “a testbed for more sustainable construction,” and the results so far are impressive. By June 2024, its first phase had already prevented the release of 2,759 tonnes of CO₂ into the atmosphere.

These achievements are a significant milestone in Stockholm’s broader environmental goals: becoming climate-positive by 2030 and fossil-fuel-free by 2040.

The project’s second phase takes sustainability a step further by incorporating carbon calculations at the tender stage. This level of accountability ensures that every aspect of the operation prioritises reducing emissions. Key goals for this phase include:

• Ensuring 100% fossil-fuel-free site operations using HVO100 fuel
• Increasing electric machinery use to 50%
• Utilising climate-reduced concrete
• Implementing rigorous carbon calculation standards

Fredrik Tjernström, Head of Electromobility Solutions Sales at Volvo CE, remarks: “The first phase showed the effectiveness of electric machines in performing tasks while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.

"This is invaluable for city centre projects to help municipalities meet their emission reduction targets and enhance air quality, as well as reducing noise levels for everyone’s benefit.”

Leading the charge with electric equipment

Electric machines are central to Slakthusområdet’s success, providing efficient, low-emission solutions. The site currently employs several electric machines, including:

• Two Volvo EC230 Electric crawler excavators
• One L120H Electric Conversion wheel loader
• Two electric trucks with trailers
• A variety of electric-powered tools for sorting and compaction

Nicknamed Electra, Ellen and Elton, these machines are supported by advanced charging infrastructure from Eviny, which includes fast chargers and battery packs to ensure seamless operation.

This machinery is not just eco-friendly; it’s also practical for urban settings. Electric equipment reduces noise pollution, making it more suitable for city projects.

As Anna Göransdotter, Project Manager at Skanska, explains: “When municipalities like Stockholm City prioritise carbon reduction in contract awards, it not only sets an inspiring precedent for other regions but also drives innovation across the construction industry.

"This proactive approach creates a ripple effect throughout the entire value chain, pushing all stakeholders to explore new possibilities and expand the boundaries of what can be achieved in sustainable construction.”

What impact does it have?

Reducing emissions from typical levels of 11 to 29 tonnes of CO₂ per SEK 1 million (approximately US$91,296) turnover to less than 3.5 tonnes is no small feat. The Slakthusområdet project proves that sustainable construction practices can achieve dramatic reductions without compromising efficiency.

This initiative’s implications stretch far beyond Stockholm. By demonstrating the viability of electric construction sites, the project sets a new benchmark for cities worldwide to adopt green solutions.

Anders Österberg, Deputy Mayor of Stockholm and Chair of the City Development Committee, adds: “In the City of Stockholm, we recognise the vital role we must play in accelerating the transition to fossil-free construction sites.

"The City of Stockholm has a goal of becoming climate-positive by 2030. To reach this goal we need to continue to require the use of electrically powered construction vehicles and fossil-free construction sites in our procurement.”

The Slakthusområdet project is more than a construction site—it’s a blueprint for the future of sustainable urban development.

As the world watches, Stockholm is proving that change is not only necessary but entirely achievable.

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