Project Clearinghouse

Converting TAPS Maintenance Equipment to Electric

Sustainability Problem and Proposed Solution: 

The project is to convert the use of existing gas powered maintenance equipment from gas powered to all electric to reduce emissions and allow the use of the newest technologies for maintenance staff.

Jump to: Contact | Project Description | Funding Sources | Metrics for Success | Results
Project Categories: 
Transportation
Project Status: 
In Progress
Project End Date: 
06/30/2022
Campus Organization: 
Carbon Fund
Affiliated Department, Unit or College: 
TAPS
Project Location: 
On campus



Stakeholder Contacts: 
Contact NameEmail AddressContact NumberDepartment
Teresa Buika
tabuika@ucsc.edu
8315027941
TAPS
Jonathan Weidman
jwiedman@ucsc.edu
TAPS
Scott Pastrone
pastrone@ucsc.edu
TAPS
Funding Sources: 
Carbon Fund

Project Description: 

The funds will be used to replace existing gas-powered maintenance equipment and purchase battery power packs to meet current staffing needs with zero-emission electric equipment, including blowers, trimmers, a hedger and an electric mower. Battery power packs would also be purchased so that each maintenance staff has their own charging equipment available. This zero-emission equipment will reduce overall pollutants and GHG by approximately 2 metric tons CO2 annually.

Metrics for Success: 

The primary measure will be the gas and oil savings compared to existing gas-powered tools if electric-powered equipment is purchased. The battery packs for the new electric equipment will be charged in the maintenance closet in the Core West parking structure so the electrical use, however minimal, will not be separately metered.

Next Steps: 
1. Award of funding and initial transfer of funding. 2. Purchase of new equipment pieces as outlined in grant. 3. Have Maintenance staff train with and use equipment.
Result Categories: 
Technology
Results: 

Project is complete as of June, 2021. Equipment was purchased in April, 2021, staff was trained on it use, and the equipment is all in use daily by TAPS Maintenance staff. Staff reports that this equipment is more versatile, lighter, creates much less noise (less disruptive) and of course, does not use fossil fuels!

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