Improving Job Site Performance with Low-Emission Equipment Hire

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation that is being driven by the increasing adoption of low-emission assets.

The sound of diesel engines on construction sites is slowly being replaced by a quieter and cleaner alternative.

Far from being a compliance exercise, this shift is proving to be a powerful catalyst for improved productivity, efficiency, and profitability on the job site.

Heavy construction machinery has been synonymous with immense power, but also with substantial carbon emissions, noise pollution, and high operational costs.

However, advancements in electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered equipment, coupled with innovative energy management systems, are proving that sustainability and peak performance are not mutually exclusive.

One of the most immediate benefits of low-emission assets is the drastic reduction in noise pollution.

Diesel engines are loud, creating a challenging work environment that can lead to communication breakdowns, increased operator fatigue, and even long-term hearing damage.

Electric and hybrid machines operate with significantly lower noise levels, which enables extended working hours in urban or residential areas and potentially reducing a project’s duration.

“Imagine being able to work late into the evening or earlier in the morning without drawing complaints from neighbours – that’s a direct productivity gain,” says OPT Hire Business Unit Manager David Ewan.

“Beyond noise, the elimination of exhaust emissions from electric and hydrogen-powered equipment offers significant health and environmental advantages.”

Zero-emission machines can be operated indoors or in confined spaces without the need for extensive ventilation systems, which opens new possibilities for construction, making projects in tunnels, basements, or enclosed spaces safer.

While the initial investment in electric and hybrid equipment might be higher than diesel powered machines, the long-term operational savings are significant.

“Fuel costs are drastically reduced with electric machines, and electric and hybrid equipment typically boast fewer moving parts, leading to substantially lower maintenance requirements,” Davis says.

“This means less downtime for servicing, fewer costly repairs, and the elimination of oil changes, filter replacements, and complex engine diagnostics further streamlines maintenance schedules.”

Beyond individual machines, a holistic approach to low-emission construction involves integrating energy storage systems (ESS) and on-site renewable energy sources, such as solar panels.

These systems can reduce reliance on large diesel generators, further cutting fuel consumption and emissions.

An ESS can provide power during peak load conditions, allowing for smaller generators to be used, and can be recharged during off-peak hours or by solar power.

While challenges remain, such as the initial investment cost and the need for robust charging infrastructure, the trajectory is clear.

“Government incentives, evolving regulations, and a growing societal demand for sustainable practices are accelerating the transition,” David says.

“Companies that embrace low-emission assets are not just reducing the environmental impact, they are positioning themselves for a more efficient, cost-effective, and ultimately, more productive future in the dynamic landscape of the construction industry.”

Ultimately, the quiet revolution on construction sites is proving that going green is not just good for the planet, it’s good for business.

David Ewan has joined the Converge 2025 panel for Powering Productivity which aims to explore where innovation meets site efficiency, we look at the latest tools and products that are enhancing construction works around Australia.

Register to attend Converge Expo this September 17-18 here.