How net zero goals are accelerating the move to electric groundscare
As the UK confirms its commitment to reach net zero by 2050, the push towards sustainability is reshaping the way businesses across all industries prepare for the future – and groundscare is no exception.
From shifts in government policy to the specific equipment teams choose for their operations, the pressure to reduce emissions is driving real change in how grounds teams work every day. This article looks at how environmental goals and local council initiatives are reshaping grounds maintenance, and why more and more teams are turning to electric tools as part of the solution.
Why regulations are changing the game
From big-picture climate legislation to specific council procurement guidelines, low-emission solutions are becoming the norm rather than the exception. The UK government’s confirmed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030 sends a clear message: the days of relying on fossil fuels are numbered. That ban may focus on road vehicles, but the ripple effects are already reaching industries like groundscare.
For teams managing green spaces, this shift is coming from two angles: fuel costs are rising, and it’s becoming harder to take internal combustion machines into certain areas – especially urban ones. In response, many local councils are investing in electric equipment now, ensuring they’re ahead of the curve and in line with clean air targets.
Councils paving the way for greener grounds maintenance
All over the UK, local authorities are showing what forward-thinking grounds maintenance looks like. Recognising the dangers of climate change, over 300 councils across the country have already committed to environmentally responsible plans that prioritise the use of renewable energy, enhance biodiversity in green spaces, promote sustainable transport options and minimise the environmental impact of waste management. The ambitious goal, in most cases, is achieving net zero emissions as soon as 2030.
Powered by up to three HyperCell lithium-ion batteries, the Workman MDX Lithium is one of Toro’s hardest working utility vehicles – but with no exhaust emissions or zero engine noise.
Take Edinburgh, for example. The city is phasing out petrol-powered blowers in favour of electric models as part of its net zero by 2030 plan. In Leicester, the council has committed nearly £70,000 to battery-powered mowers and handheld tools as part of its broader environmental push. And in Cambridge, the city council is transitioning all fleet vehicles (such as vans, trucks, and even refuse lorries) and equipment to electric alternatives to cut emissions and improve air quality.
These are more than just one-off upgrades. They’re tangible signs that councils are aligning operations with sustainability goals – and they’re proving that electric solutions can meet the demands of modern groundscare operations.
Why electric equipment is winning teams over
There’s no denying that petrol and diesel machines still have a role to play. But with the regulatory landscape changing and environmental pressure increasing, building a mixed fleet that includes electric equipment is a smart move.
The benefits go well beyond emissions. Electric machines generally cost less to run, thanks to fewer moving parts and less frequent maintenance. They’re also a lot quieter and smoother to operate, which means they’re more comfortable and safer for staff to use every day. The reduced noise makes early starts or late finishes acceptable too – which is ideal in residential areas where disruption must be kept to a minimum.
Another bonus is that battery-powered machines don’t use engine oil, so there’s no risk of hydraulic leaks. That means less downtime, fewer turf issues and a more reliable operation overall. And looking ahead, making the switch now helps teams stay compliant with future legislation and ensures they’re not caught out when fuel-based equipment becomes harder to purchase or maintain.
Electric utility vehicles built for today’s demands
It’s not just mowers making the shift – utility vehicles are going electric too, offering the same performance with far fewer emissions. The Toro Workman GTX Lithium and Workman MDX Lithium are great examples: each model is powered by two of Toro’s proprietary HyperCell batteries, with the option of adding a third for extended runtime. These versatile, all-electric utility vehicles offer rugged performance with zero engine noise and no exhaust fumes, making them ideal for working in and around public parks, schools, sports grounds, and even noise-sensitive areas like hospitals or residential neighbourhoods.
Both models come with a distributed Battery Management System (BMS) for optimised battery performance, as well as durable build quality and smart design features that make daily jobs easier and cleaner. Like other electric options, they also have lower running costs and a reduced environmental impact – without compromising on the power needed to get the job done.
The Toro Groundsmaster e3300: a real-world example of electric excellence
Another machine that shows how far electric groundscare has come is the Toro Groundsmaster e3300. Built for teams ready to move away from fossil fuels, this out-front rotary mower is all about all-day productivity with none of the emissions.
The e3300 also harnesses Toro’s HyperCell technology, with up to 17 batteries to ensure all-day runtime – which works in tandem with Smart Power mode to balance energy use and cutting performance. A built-in reserve makes sure the machine can get back to base for charging, and the 3.3kW onboard charger makes overnight top-ups easy. And because it doesn’t need fuel or engine oil, it’s cleaner and simpler to run – without compromising on the cutting performance Toro is known for.
Toro’s Groundsmaster e3300 offers all-day electric productivity with zero emissions and tackles inclines with confidence, thanks to the CrossTrax all-wheel drive.
Making sustainability part of your equipment strategyWith legislation continuing to evolve and local councils setting the pace, now’s the time for grounds teams to think strategically about their equipment. Building a fleet that includes electric options is one of the best ways to stay ahead.
Machines like the Toro Groundsmaster e3300, Toro Workman GTX Lithium and Toro Workman MDX Lithium show that choosing electric doesn’t mean sacrificing productivity or quality. Whether you’re looking after a local sports pitch or managing green spaces in your city, there are real advantages to be had – from cost savings to quieter, cleaner operation.
The transition to electric isn’t just about meeting environmental targets – it’s about building smarter, more resilient maintenance operations for the future.