Sustainable transport in practice – charging infrastructure for electric garbage trucks in Kalisz

EKO, a company specializing in the collection and transport of municipal and industrial waste, is becoming a pioneer of green transformation in the public services sector.

In response to regulations introduced by the Polish Electromobility Act and the company’s deep commitment to environmental responsibility, EKO launched a comprehensive process to electrify its fleet. In collaboration with Volvo (supplier of electric trucks), Ekoenergetyka (charging infrastructure provider), and Elocity (charging station operator), a fully integrated system has been implemented in Kalisz, combining cutting-edge technology with the company’s everyday operations.

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Key elements of the collaboration: sustainability and technology in action

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The electrification journey was driven both by EU regulations (AFIR) and EKO’s strong environmental values. The company has long invested in renewable energy sources — currently generating electricity from its own photovoltaic panels, with plans to expand into wind power, and eventually produce green hydrogen from waste.

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The process began with the selection of an appropriate electric vehicle – a Volvo electric garbage truck. Once technical parameters and daily routes were analyzed, EKO selected Ekoenergetyka as the charging equipment supplier. The company installed an Axon Easy 120 kW charger, adapted to the site’s available grid connection. Charging time for a fully depleted battery is around 4 hours, with an average of 3 hours typically required to recharge for the next workday.

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Out of a fleet of 40 vehicles, two are already electric, and more are planned. Electric garbage trucks have proven ideal for city operations: they run on fixed routes, at low speeds, and are nearly silent — providing a better experience for residents.

Cost and efficiency

EKO emphasizes that the cost per kilometer for an electric garbage truck is comparable to that of a diesel vehicle. This is largely due to the company’s own renewable energy generation and in-house charging infrastructure. The cost of energy is a critical factor — reliance on grid electricity could result in significantly higher operational expenses.

ekoenergetyka cracow, Sustainable transport in practice – charging infrastructure for electric garbage trucks in Kalisz, Ekoenergetyka

Charging infrastructure – also open to the public

Interestingly, EKO decided to make its charging station publicly available. Observing a lack of fast charging infrastructure in the region, the company took action to support local electromobility. In partnership with Elocity, the station was opened to external users. Profitability was not the primary motivation — instead, the move reflected a sense of social responsibility and commitment to developing sustainable transport solutions in the region.

Goals of the collaboration

Decarbonizing municipal transport

The project aims to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve urban air quality. By combining green energy and smart technologies, EKO is helping to create more livable cities.

Setting a New Standard in the Industry

EKO proves that even mid-sized companies can lead the green transformation. Their approach serves as a blueprint for others aiming to adopt sustainable practices in fleet management.

Scale and impact

40 vehicles in the fleet, including 2 electric garbage trucks

2 charging points at the operational base

Energy from renewable sources: photovoltaic panels, planned wind turbines

The EKO Kalisz project proves that green transformation is possible today – and can be profitable, functional, and socially responsible. It is an example worth following if we want to build cleaner, more sustainable cities.

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