Working with our Partners… to explore sustainable alternatives in Ireland
Working with our Partners… to explore sustainable alternatives in Ireland
BAM’s Pioneering Use of Ireland's First LiuGong Electric 23-Tonne Excavator
BAM, in collaboration with subcontractors COD Plant & Civil Engineering have made an important move forward in sustainable construction with the introduction of Ireland’s first LiuGong 922FE battery electric excavator. a decision which aligns with BAM's vision for more sustainable construction practices and addressing the issue of excessive noise coming from urban projects.
Perfect Fit for Urban Projects
The arrival of this innovative machine is timely, as it’s currently in operation at a major school construction project in Sandymount. This project involves comprehensive development for Shellybanks ETNS and Sandymount ETSS. Choosing a school project in Dublin as the debut site for the 24-tonne electric excavator was ideal, as it operates silently and is emission-free, addressing two critical challenges in urban construction; environmental impact and community disruption.
BAM Contracts Manager Brian Holmes highlights the positive impact:
“Since we started, we haven’t had a single complaint about noise. The battery electric excavator allows us to start work at 7am without disturbing residents. It’s a game-changer for urban construction.”
Operational Excellence
Currently, the excavator is working on Phase One of the project, which involves the primary school for Shellybanks ETNS. The project began with the demolition of existing structures, followed by extensive excavations and piling works. The excavator is crucial for the 4,000 cubic metre basement excavation, with an even larger 19,000 cubic metre excavation planned for Phase Two. The run time of the excavator is 8-11 hours depending on the tasks, and a rapid charge system has been installed to ensure continuous operation.
Leading by Example
Other sustainability initiatives on this project include battery storage systems to manage electricity demand, HVO or hybrid systems for site lighting, and HVO fuel for combustion engine-powered equipment. These measures aim to reduce carbon emissions whilst maintaining efficiency, benefiting both the planet and local residents.
This revolutionary technology is a vital part of BAM's broader strategy to significantly reduce carbon emissions across their sites. BAM are also exploring 100% hydrogen machinery with JCB and leading the UK government-funded Element 1 project, an end-to-end hybrid hydrogen fuel solution for existing plant, reducing diesel consumption by up to 30%.
Cleaning up the construction industry will require multiple approaches used in tandem, and this technology will play a crucial role in that effort.
