Lessons from Essential Energy’s EV Transition
In December, local government fleet managers gathered in Bathurst for an EV Drive Day, featuring a presentation by Michael Mills, Fleet Manager at Essential Energy. Sharing candid insights from Essential Energy’s journey toward electrification, Mills offered practical advice to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs).
Key Lessons Learned
Mills shared practical insights gained during Essential Energy’s ongoing EV journey, providing valuable guidance for fleet managers.
- Focus on End-of-Life Replacements – Rather than retrofitting or prematurely replacing vehicles, Essential Energy prioritises EV adoption for vehicles nearing the end of their life cycles. This phased approach helps the organisation stay within budget and ensures that newer EV models with improved capabilities are considered.
- Prioritise Depot Charging – One of the most significant learnings was the importance of depot charging infrastructure. Mills observed that employees preferred charging at depots rather than relying on public infrastructure, as it provided a sense of security and convenience. This insight led Essential Energy to prioritise installing chargers across its depots.
- Use Data to Guide Decisions – Essential Energy leverages telematics data to assess EV suitability for specific roles. Their internal evaluation tool analyses vehicle usage patterns and matches them with appropriate EV models, ensuring a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Clear Scope and Focus – Mills stressed the importance of focusing on vehicles that are practical for EV replacement. For example, high-payload vehicles remain out of scope until suitable EV options become available. Instead, the organisation focuses on assets like forklifts, line trucks, tipping trucks and UTVs, where electrification is cost-effective and feasible.
- Engage the Workforce – Transitioning to EVs requires employee buy-in. Mills emphasised consistent communication, early engagement, and transparency. Sharing successes and setbacks openly has been a cornerstone of their approach, fostering trust and collaboration.
In December, local government fleet managers gathered in Bathurst for an EV Drive Day, featuring a presentation by Michael Mills, Fleet Manager at Essential Energy. Sharing candid insights from Essential Energy’s journey toward electrification, Mills offered practical advice to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs).
Key Lessons Learned
Mills shared practical insights gained during Essential Energy’s ongoing EV journey, providing valuable guidance for fleet managers.
- Focus on End-of-Life Replacements – Rather than retrofitting or prematurely replacing vehicles, Essential Energy prioritises EV adoption for vehicles nearing the end of their life cycles. This phased approach helps the organisation stay within budget and ensures that newer EV models with improved capabilities are considered.
- Prioritise Depot Charging – One of the most significant learnings was the importance of depot charging infrastructure. Mills observed that employees preferred charging at depots rather than relying on public infrastructure, as it provided a sense of security and convenience. This insight led Essential Energy to prioritise installing chargers across its depots.
- Use Data to Guide Decisions – Essential Energy leverages telematics data to assess EV suitability for specific roles. Their internal evaluation tool analyses vehicle usage patterns and matches them with appropriate EV models, ensuring a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Clear Scope and Focus – Mills stressed the importance of focusing on vehicles that are practical for EV replacement. For example, high-payload vehicles remain out of scope until suitable EV options become available. Instead, the organisation focuses on assets like forklifts, line trucks, tipping trucks and UTVs, where electrification is cost-effective and feasible.
- Engage the Workforce – Transitioning to EVs requires employee buy-in. Mills emphasised consistent communication, early engagement, and transparency. Sharing successes and setbacks openly has been a cornerstone of their approach, fostering trust and collaboration.
Read the full article from Fleet EV News here.
