Byron Shire Council begins transition to electric vehicle fleet

BYRON Shire Council has added five electric vehicles to its workforce fleet as part of a broader plan to reduce emissions and modernise operations.

The vehicles were purchased this year with support from a $31,000 Kickstart Grant from the NSW Government, with charging infrastructure to be installed at the Mullumbimby administration building and the Byron depot.

Council team leader sustainability Alicia Lloyd said the move marked the first step in a long term transition away from petrol powered fleet vehicles.

“The new EVs mark the beginning of our commitment to transitioning our fleet to cleaner energy and reducing our operational emissions,” she said.

“This is an investment in sustainable, environmentally responsible transport options for our workforce, and one that will deliver real environmental and financial benefits.”

Council recently completed a fleet transition study to assess vehicle suitability, charging needs and economic feasibility, finding small to medium SUVs were well suited to electric alternatives.

Dr Lloyd said modelling suggested the initial rollout would deliver environmental gains and cost savings.

“The modelling shows a positive return on investment for this first stage, and we expect to save up to 14 tonnes of CO₂ each year. It’s a win win for the environment and for Council’s budget.”

Five vehicles and associated chargers have now been secured, with future fleet replacements expected to be electric where funding and operational needs allow.

“Our goal is to continue our light vehicle fleet transition to electric at each replacement cycle, subject to funding and operational requirements,” she said.