Electron Garage Success in Share of Can Do Innovation Challenge Fund

A second challenge call for Zero Emissions Heavy Duty Vehicles was completed recently from Transport Scotland and Scottish Enterprise through its Can Do Innovation Challenge framework, to support innovation around net zero transport.

This round of funding was an extension to a programme launched in 2021 and aimed to target a wider range of heavy-duty transport with successful projects including boats, gritters and offroad excavators.

One of the successful recipients was Business Gateway Fife client, Electron Garage, based in Glenrothes.  The business is using the funding to develop a retrofit solution to electrify diesel gritters with swappable batteries. This will enable depots with 24-hour capability and also vehicle-to-grid capacity to tap into onsite renewables and off-peak electricity when the vehicle is not in use.

The retrofit aims to provide a more cost-efficient solution for public sector fleets and Wayne Campbell from Electron Garage said the company has already had support for the project from East Lothian Council.

He added, “We ultimately aim to help all local authorities to electrify all of their heavy duty vehicles - and save money in the process - factoring in their range of different duty cycles and providing retrofit solutions that work for them. We are thankful for the support of Scottish Enterprise’s Zero Emissions Heavy Duty Vehicles challenge call, as it is vital we look to reduce emissions around transport.”

Business Adviser, Alasdair Busby, has given Wayne strategic and mentoring support throughout his business journey for several years.  He commented, “Wayne has been very proactive and shown real commitment to growing the business in a sustainable way. The retrofit solutions should be of interest to local authorities across the country in their drive towards net zero.  We were able to secure several streams of funding, including Digital Boost for the development of a marketing strategy, a Financial Support to Businesses grant towards the purchase of 3D printing equipment and latterly a Net Zero Fund grant to replace all the lighting with LED to drastically reduce energy consumption. Wayne has also been able to attend industry events through support from the Trade Development Fund.”

Whether thinking of starting a business or looking to grow or sustain an existing business, contact Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333 for a variety of advice and support or visit www.businessgatewayfife.com