Bangkok: Governor Chatchart affirms that electric garbage trucks (EVs) are essential for the city's transition to clean energy, guaranteeing transparency and saving more than 4,745 million baht, reducing fuel costs by 54%.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt unveiled a project to lease 1,347 electric garbage trucks, which is under review in the second and third readings of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council's 2027 budget bill, amounting to over 93,918 million baht. He highlighted the project's complexity, marking a shift from traditional diesel garbage trucks to electric ones, and emphasized its potential for cost savings, pollution reduction, and enhanced public service efficiency.
Governor Chatchart stated that transitioning from diesel to electric vehicles (EVs) aligns with the government's policy to promote EV usage. A Cabinet resolution from August 2021 mandates that government agencies should consider EVs for replacing old vehicles or for new missions. Another resolution from October 2023 aims for 30% of vehicles to achieve zero emissions by 2030.
From an environmental standpoint, electric vehicles help lower emissions of PM2.5, carbon monoxide, and greenhouse gases. They also produce less noise, making them ideal for nighttime waste collection, minimizing disruption to the public and the environment.
Addressing transparency concerns, Governor Chatchart assured that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) thoroughly scrutinizes projects. A joint committee with representatives from various agencies has been established to review details and respond to observations from relevant agencies. Ethical and transparency processes are incorporated to ensure accountability.
Regarding outsourcing garbage collection responsibilities, Governor Chatchart emphasized the need to retain personnel for daily services and emergency situations. He suggested a gradual workforce reduction through retirements to enhance efficiency without layoffs.
The adoption of electric garbage trucks is already underway in other areas. Pattaya City, for instance, requires contractors to use at least ten electric trucks from 2021-2026. Saensuk Subdistrict Municipality (Bang Saen) and Phuket City Municipality have similar contracts, and Nonthaburi City Municipality has trialed electric trucks since 2022.
In terms of readiness, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is collaborating on charging infrastructure and will conduct vehicle performance tests to ensure efficient waste collection in Bangkok. The BMA is open to feedback from the Bangkok Metropolitan Council and prepared to adjust project details if necessary. However, if the 2027 budget is not approved, the BMA might have to continue leasing existing diesel vehicles for two more years, some of which are outdated and contribute to pollution and noise problems.
Governor Chatchart remarked, "Change isn't easy, but technology is becoming more available. We must strive for efficiency in budget savings, environmental protection, and preparing for the future. Many cities have adopted EVs for waste collection, and citizens must have reliable waste collection services without interruption."
The rationale for switching to EV garbage trucks includes lower rental costs, with EV rentals being approximately 7-10% cheaper than diesel equivalents in 2020. The 1,347 electric garbage trucks are expected to reduce energy costs by about 4,745 million baht over a 5-year contract, saving 54% compared to diesel trucks. Diesel vehicles incur energy costs of approximately 8,756 million baht over five years, while EVs cost around 4,011 million baht, resulting in significant savings.
Moreover, Governor Chatchart mentioned a proposal for firefighting technology, including drones capable of delivering water to fire scenes, especially in high-rise buildings. This technology could enhance fire suppression speed and efficiency, and the BMA will evaluate its suitability to ensure public safety.