The Californer - City of Long Beach Deploys First-Ever Zero-Emissions Collections Trucks in New Pilot Program

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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach has taken a major step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future with the deployment of its first two electric collections trucks. This marks the launch of the Zero-Emissions Collections Pilot Program, which aims to evaluate the feasibility of transitioning to a fully zero-emission fleet in the years ahead.

Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his excitement about this initiative, stating that it reflects the city's commitment to climate action and innovation. He believes that these electric collections trucks will not only reduce emissions but also improve air quality and modernize city services.

The pilot program, which began on April 23rd, has deployed two electric collections trucks in real-world operations. One truck is operating on standard routes while the other is primarily running in alleys. This limited approach allows for a thorough evaluation of their performance before considering expansion in the future. It also ensures that regular daily collection operations can continue without disruption while the new technology is tested.

The pilot will continue until enough operational data has been collected to support a full evaluation. Key metrics being evaluated include the total tonnage each truck can carry before needing to unload, how long each vehicle can operate on a single charge, and whether they can complete their assigned routes without interruption. Staff will also monitor for any technical issues related to the new technology. These data points will help determine if zero-emission trucks can meet the same operational demands as the current compressed natural gas (CNG) fleet before considering broader fleet replacement.

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Transitioning to a fully zero-emission fleet presents significant logistical and financial considerations for the city. The electric charging infrastructure needed for a fleet of 89+ refuse trucks is complex and requires careful planning.

Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen expressed her pride in leading City Council on this effort, stating that it is an investment in a more sustainable future for Long Beach. She believes that by testing these zero-emissions collections trucks in real-world conditions, the city is taking a practical and data-driven approach to reducing emissions while still prioritizing top-notch services for residents.

Vice Mayor and Seventh District Councilmember Roberto Uranga also emphasized the importance of exploring zero-emissions technology for the collections fleet. He believes that this pilot program will help the city better understand how to scale these efforts in a way that is both operationally effective and fiscally responsible.

The pilot program is a joint venture between the City's Fleet Services Bureau and Energy & Environmental Services Department. It aligns with recommendations outlined in the June 2024 City's Fleet Impacts and Accelerated Transition to Zero-Emissions EV Refuse Trucks memo, which was brought forward by Councilwoman Allen and co-sponsored by Vice Mayor Uranga. The memo also notes that carrying out these strategies will require coordination across operational departments and additional analysis for future consideration by City Council.

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Bob Dowell, Director of Energy & Environmental Services, expressed his excitement about this pilot program, stating that it represents an opportunity to explore how electric collections trucks can support the city's sustainability goals while meeting operational needs. He believes that the data gathered during this trial period will help determine the next steps based on operational and logistical needs.

For more information on collections services in Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/lbrecycles. The city remains committed to thoughtful, data-driven implementation amid evolving regulatory requirements under the Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) mandate. With this pilot program, Long Beach is taking a proactive approach towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for its residents.

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