The construction industry hasn’t always been at the forefront of sustainable innovation, but teams can change that by exploring green electricity options.
Understanding how to implement and manage renewable energy on construction sites strengthens a company’s commitment to sustainability and enhances its reputation—positioning it as the preferred provider for environmentally conscious clients.
Why construction professionals are using green power
Many companies are shifting their workflows to prioritise the planet, but construction teams may have more responsibility than most. Industry activity from buildings and infrastructure accounted for almost one-third of Australia’s carbon emissions between 2022 and 2023. There are numerous reasons why the industry has a large impact on the environment.
Material and machinery manufacturing contribute to emissions rates. While those are outside of a company’s control, it can still make a difference by using renewable energy on active build sites. Reducing the carbon output shrinks the industry’s footprint, too.
How to create and use sustainable energy on active sites
Generating green power on construction sites is easier than many teams might assume. Learn how to create and use renewable energy in future projects to make them more environmentally responsible and better for the planet.
1. Install solar panels
Residential and commercial property owners install solar panels on their rooftops, but there is no need to worry about a permanent installation to use them. Construction leaders often install solar panels on shipping containers and office trailers to generate sustainable energy, regardless of location. They can be used to charge electric equipment, like heavy machinery that operates strictly on batteries.
There is no need to upgrade entire fleets to maintain greener energy practices. Using solar-charged batteries more efficiently in equipment like forklifts will reduce the carbon footprint. An opportunity charging system uses less electricity by stopping short of a full charge. The batteries demand less power from the grid and last longer, minimising how often they need to be replaced.
2. Use green generators
Generators are essential for working through power outages and for generating electricity on properties that don’t yet have local grid hookups. Using a green generator will make essential activities better for the Earth.
Equipment, batteries or large machines can be charged with individual generators. If incorporating other strategies such as running a diesel-powered fleet on at least 20 per cent biodiesel blends, emissions could be reduced.
Other strategies could also help companies stand out as a preferred provider of sustainable construction practices. For example, using resources like green concrete that cuts as much as 36 per cent of emissions from the mixing process, donating regularly to environmental charities, and using the most sustainable materials possible.
3. Establish a microgrid
Microgrids are a renewable energy resource that’s gaining popularity throughout Australia. They can capture wind and solar energy, depending on their source. Companies can choose where the microgrid sources its electricity when installing it on an active build site. Microgrids can operate alone or attach to structures like office trailers.
Access to microgrids is rising slowly, so searching for a provider can take longer than expected. Projects like RACE for 2030 are making them more widely available by evaluating the regulatory framework that prevents people from accessing them. As sustainably minded individuals make technologies like microgrids available, teams should be able to access them more easily at project sites across various regions.
Make the construction industry greener
Creating and using renewable energies is possible on any construction site. Companies can get creative with resources to make projects more environmentally friendly. Whether installing solar panels, charging batteries with a green generator or lookong into microgrids, companies can set themselves apart as leaders in sustainable construction.
