2024 Annual Report Draft

Solid waste collection: Electric truck conversion

Electric trucks in Courtenay

As part of Courtenay’s commitment to climate action and sustainable waste management, the City transitioned to an automated curbside collection system in January 2024, delivering nearly 30,000 carts for garbage, organics and recycling to approximately 9,960 households. This initiative advanced regional waste-reduction goals by introducing bi-weekly garbage collection, larger 360 L organics carts and education programs that encouraged increased recycling and organics participation. In collaboration with Emterra Environmental, an entire fleet of fully electric waste collection trucks was implemented in August 2024, the largest deployment of its kind in North America. These electric trucks are designed specifically for waste collection, offering zero emissions and lower noise levels compared to traditional diesel trucks. The deployment of this fleet is expected to reduce emissions by approximately 480 tonnes of CO2e annually. This initiative reflects Courtenay's proactive approach to environmental stewardship and its dedication to integrating sustainable technologies into municipal operations. More information: courtenay.ca/collects Electrification of small equipment As part of Courtenay’s commitment to climate action, the City’s Operational Services department converted 80 per cent of its small gas-powered landscape equipment to battery-powered alternatives in 2024. The transition supports the City’s goal of reducing community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent by 2030. Supported by a $100,000 one-time allocation from the Growing Communities Fund, this initiative is projected to eliminate 7.93 tonnes of CO2e annually, reducing emissions and noise pollution while improving operational efficiency. While the City retained some gas-powered equipment for specific tasks due to battery technology limitations, plans remain in place to fully phase out remaining gas-powered tools as battery performance improves. This initiative reflects Courtenay’s proactive approach to adopting sustainable technologies and demonstrating leadership in low-carbon municipal operations while contributing to a cleaner, quieter and more energy efficient community.

Operational Services EV fleet and charger install

In 2024, the City of Courtenay’s Operational Services department made significant progress in its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and embracing green technology. As part of this ongoing effort, the City introduced four electric trucks to its municipal fleet, marking a major milestone in transitioning to more sustainable operational practices. These zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) not only help reduce the City’s carbon footprint but also reflect leadership in climate-conscious municipal operations. To support this shift toward electrification, the department installed five dual-port level two EV (electric vehicle) charging stations at the Operations yard, ensuring infrastructure readiness for future fleet expansion. These stations provide the necessary support to accommodate a growing EV fleet, reinforcing the City’s long-term sustainability goals. This initiative was supported by a Natural Resources Canada grant through their Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. Funding of $41,000 resulted in a net cost of approximately $48,000 for infrastructure upgrades, supply and installation of the chargers. These investments highlight the City of Courtenay’s proactive approach to environmental sustainability, integrating green technology into municipal operations and setting the stage for continued fleet electrification and emissions reductions in the years ahead.

City of Courtenay | 2024 Annual Report

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