Victorian Government Grants Driving Transition to Zero Emissions Vehicles, Saving Costs, and Reducing Emissions,

The Victorian Government’s grants to incentivize companies to adopt Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) are making a significant impact on reducing emissions and saving costs. Duxton Dried Fruits, one of Australia’s largest dried fruit growers, is a prime example of how the government’s Commercial Sector Innovation Fund is driving sustainability while cutting expenses.

Duxton received grant funding to trial six zero emissions vehicles and establish a solar charging station at their Wemen vineyard in north-west Victoria. This transition to fully-electric Ultra Terrain Vehicles for various tasks has eliminated the need for fuel trucks and reduced reliance on emergency fuel, resulting in substantial savings for the company.

The switch to ZEV technology is expected to reduce Duxton’s yearly emissions by 29 tonnes and save the company more than $10,000 in fuel costs. Additionally, Duxton is collaborating with the Mallee Regional Innovation Centre to promote wider adoption of ZEV technology across the industry.

Victoria has set ambitious climate targets, aiming for 95 percent renewable energy generation by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2045. These targets align with the government’s efforts to create economic opportunities, such as generating $63 billion in economic benefits and creating thousands of jobs through climate action.

Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne emphasized the benefits of companies switching to zero emissions vehicles, stating that it not only reduces emissions but also improves the bottom line. Minister for Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio highlighted the significance of supporting businesses in transitioning to electric vehicles to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Henry Young, Sustainability Project Officer at Duxton Capital Australia, praised the positive effects of adopting ZEV technology, such as eliminating the need for fuel trucks and reducing the distance traveled for emergency fuel procurement.

The Victorian Government’s grants and initiatives are instrumental in driving the transition to zero emissions vehicles, helping businesses become more sustainable and economically efficient.

Source