Mayor Ken Laban opened the landfill’s charging hub on Tuesday – a miniature version of similar initiatives overseas – which could charge electric-powered loaders and 60 rubbish trucks. The Hutt City Council said that was part of a move to slash the landfill’s emissions, of which fuelling its diesel vehicles made up the bulk.

A conventional 20-tonne diesel loader at Silverstream could emit about 68 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, but an electric one of the same tonnage could cut that by up to 90%. The hub also meant the council could electrify more of the landfill’s construction machinery and vehicles over the next five to eight years.

“Waste and heavy transport are among our biggest sources of emissions, and electrifying heavy vehicles is one of the most effective ways we can bring those numbers down,” Laban said.

“This project shows how Lower Hutt can lead on climate action while still delivering the services our community relies on every day.”

The Government, through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), covered $500,000 of the project.

EECA chief executive Dr Marcos Pelenur said installing heavy EV chargers at the landfill was a “strong example” of smart infrastructure for modern, more efficient services, and it was a demonstration of how innovation could future-proof essential services for long-term value.

“This project shows how the right technology and infrastructure can unlock real productivity and cost benefits for councils and contractors,” he said.

“It’s a practical demonstration of how innovation can future-proof essential services while delivering long-term value.”

The charging hub was an “important step” in the shift to lower-emissions waste services, said Sarah White, the Lower North Island general manager of Waste Management New Zealand which runs the Silverstream Landfill.

“Having reliable charging at key operational sites gives us the confidence to keep investing in low-emissions technology while continuing to deliver the services communities depend on.”

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.