Hydro One introduces first hybrid truck
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.
Related News

Which of the cleaner states imports dirty electricity?
WASHINGTON - In the United States, electricity generation accounts for nearly 30% of our carbon emissions. Some states have responded to that by setting aggressive renewable energy standards; others are hoping to see coal propped up even as its economics get worse. Complicating matters further is the fact that many regional grids are integrated, meaning power generated in one location may be exported and used in a different state entirely.
Tracking these electricity exports is critical for understanding how to lower our national carbon emissions. In addition, power from a dirty source like coal has health and environment impacts where it's…