Hydro One introduces first hybrid truck

BARRIE, ONTARIO - Hydro One showcased its new hybrid truck at the opening of Georgian College's Centre for Sustainable Technologies in Barrie.

The new centre will facilitate the teaching of several hundred new students in a variety of Engineering Technology programs. Hydro One was an official sponsor of the opening event.

"It is fitting that we are showcasing Hydro One's first hybrid bucket truck at the Centre for Sustainable Technologies", said Laura Formusa, President and CEO, Hydro One. "This truck is just one example of a large-scale effort underway at Hydro One to green our activities and reduce the environmental footprint of our business and our operations."

The hybrid bucket truck, assembled by Wajax Industries Inc., based in Milton, Ontario, runs on a diesel engine with less horsepower than its non-hybrid equivalent. The aerial bucket device on the back of the truck works on stored energy from the engine. This allows the bucket to run for 10 to 15 minutes without the engine running. The engine will automatically turn on and off to recharge and is not required to run when the bucket is stationary. In a traditional bucket truck, the engine powers the aerial lift on the back of the truck, which requires the engine to run constantly.

The manufacturer estimates fuel savings up to 4,500 litres per year. Initially, the truck will be piloted in Newmarket and surrounding areas, where Hydro One is able to assess its capabilities and benefits in both urban and rural settings.