The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has partnered with EDF to significantly cut emissions, supported by a switch to electric cars and vans.

SFRS aims to transition 50% of its 755-strong ‘light fleet’ of cars and vans to EVs by 2025, increasing to all light vehicles by 2030

The public sector organisation is seeking to significantly improve its energy efficiency in accordance with the Scottish government’s target to achieve net zero by 2045; its work will save more than 14,000 tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030.

In line with the Scottish government’s target of phasing out new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2032, EDF will help SFRS transition to fully electric vehicles and install charging stations across its network of sites.

SFRS aims to transition 50% of its 755-strong ‘light fleet’ of cars and vans to EVs by 2025, increasing to all light vehicles by 2030.

EDF has already installed 51 charge points across 46 SFRS sites, with charge points strategically placed across Scotland to ensure that each area commander can cover their region and collectively they can cover the whole of Scotland.

The partnership will also reduce the emissions associated with powering the SFRS buildings. EDF has been supplying the fire and rescue service with renewable electricity since 2017. To further address the emissions associated with its building portfolio, select SFRS sites will also be equipped for onsite renewable generation through the installation of solar PVs.

The solar PVs that have been installed to date are expected to save the SFRS around £90,000 per year and 150 tonnes of carbon.

Iain Morris, acting director of finance and procurement at SFRS, said: “These important measures to improve energy efficiency across our buildings and fleet reflect our ongoing commitment to reducing our impact on the environment.

“As an organisation, our frontline firefighters respond to the impacts of severe weather events such as wildfires and flooding, therefore we want to ensure we are taking all necessary steps to address the climate emergency.

“We have set out our long-term goals and are working towards reducing carbon emissions by 6% each year until 2030.”

Matthew Nunn, director I&C sales at EDF, added: “This kind of leading initiative within the public sector to reduce carbon emissions is vital for the UK’s collective journey towards net zero. SFRS’ ambitious plans should serve as an example to similar organisations looking to take similar steps, demonstrating the kind of commitment, planning and determination that can help everyone achieve the net zero target.”