State to deploy electric recycling trucks in Southeast Michigan, replacing diesel fleet

Electric refuse truck. Courtesy of City of Madison, Wisconsin.

As part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) is set to receive $4.4 million to deploy 15 electric recycling trucks alongside 15 charging stations across Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties. 

The vehicles obtained through this funding will serve to replace aging diesel vehicles, while reducing air pollution and cutting costs, EGLE noted in its announcement Thursday, adding that this development would help meet the goals laid out in the MI Healthy Climate plan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s blueprint for Michigan to achieve 100% carbon neutrality by 2050. 

Last December, Whitmer also signed a directive to convert 100% of the state’s fleet of vehicles to zero-emissions vehicles by 2040.

EGLE also noted in its announcement that the trucks would be deployed in historically disadvantaged communities, as low income communities and communities of color are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change and air quality challenges. The trucks are expected to cut out 1.19 metric tons of nitrogen oxides and 1,545 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per vehicle through their 15-year lifespan. EGLE notes that these pollutants are linked to increases in cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.

Alongside reducing waste and cutting down on emissions, EGLE stated that these vehicles would save taxpayer money, as they cost less to operate and maintain. 

The funding also includes training for  30 drivers and mechanics through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy.

“Our state is at the forefront of an economic transformation, with historic federal funding bringing a surge of good-paying clean energy jobs to Michigan,” LEO Director Susan Corbin said in a statement. “To seize this opportunity, we must ensure our workforce is ready to meet the demands of these industries. By investing in skills training and workforce development, we’re equipping Michiganders with the tools they need to thrive while cementing Michigan’s position as a leader in innovation and economic growth.”

The truck replacement project will launch in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by December 2026.

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