How Electric Construction Equipment Is Reshaping Ontario Jobsites
Ontario’s construction sites are constantly changing! While diesel-powered equipment has dominated the industry for decades, a new generation of electric construction machinery is beginning to reshape how contractors work.
Electric scissors, forklifts, booms and specialty material handling machines are appearing on job sites ranging from urban developments to municipal infrastructure projects. The shift is driven by a combination of environmental goals, operating cost savings, and the need for quieter, safer work environments.
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, improving air quality and reducing workplace hazards remain key priorities in construction safety. Electric equipment supports these goals by eliminating exhaust emissions at the job site while significantly reducing noise levels.
At Bercon Rentals, contractors are increasingly asking about electric options as manufacturers continue expanding their fleets of battery-powered machines.
Why Electric Equipment Is Gaining Ground
Electric construction equipment offers several advantages compared with traditional diesel machines.
Berton Rentals’ battery-powered machines produce zero on-site emissions, operate more quietly, and often require less maintenance because they have fewer moving mechanical parts.
This combination can significantly improve conditions for both workers and surrounding communities.
For example:
- Operators experience less exposure to diesel fumes
- Noise levels are reduced, particularly in residential areas
- Equipment maintenance schedules are simplified
- Energy costs can be lower compared to diesel fuel
Many electric machines also deliver instant torque and smoother control, which can improve precision for lifting tasks.
Where Electric Equipment Is Already Being Used
Although electric equipment is still expanding across the industry, several types of machines are already widely available.
These include compact excavators, loaders, forklifts, and utility machines commonly used on municipal and urban projects
| Electric Equipment Type | Typical Jobsite Applications | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Booms | Indoor construction and maintenance in warehouses, commercial buildings, and finished environments such as concrete floors or landscaped areas | Compact footprint for confined spaces, non-marking tires to protect finished surfaces, and smooth, precise platform control |
| Electric Scissors | Work on flat, level surfaces including ceiling installation, painting, drywall, facility maintenance, warehouse operations, heavy material handling, and event setup | Quiet, emission-free operation ideal for indoor use and occupied buildings |
| Electric Forklifts | Warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, facilities maintenance, retail fit-outs, utility work, and light construction applications | Zero exhaust emissions for indoor environments, excellent maneuverability in tight aisles and congested work areas |
These machines are particularly useful in environments where diesel engines can create problems.
Application examples include:
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Schools and university campuses
- Underground or tunnel work
- Indoor construction projects
- Dense urban developments
Electric machines allow crews to work in spaces where diesel equipment would otherwise require ventilation systems or special permits.
Lower Noise Is Transforming Urban Jobsites
Noise complaints are a common challenge for contractors working in cities. Bercon’s electric equipment offers a practical solution.
Because electric motors are significantly quieter than diesel engines, projects can often operate for longer hours without disturbing nearby residents.
This can benefit projects such as:
- Condo developments in downtown areas
- Road repairs in residential neighbourhoods
- Municipal maintenance projects near schools or hospitals
Lower noise also improves working conditions for crews.
According to industry reports, quieter machines reduce operator fatigue and create a safer environment where workers can communicate more easily.
The Cost Equation: Fuel vs Electricity
While electric equipment typically carries a higher upfront purchase price, long-term operating costs can often be lower.
Electric machines eliminate diesel fuel expenses and require fewer mechanical repairs.
| Operating Cost Factor | Diesel Equipment | Electric Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | High and variable | Fewer moving parts |
| Maintenance | Engine, fuel systems, filters | Fewer moving parts |
| Noise control | May require mitigation | Naturally quieter |
| Emissions compliance | Increasing regulation | Zero tailpipe emissions |
For example, studies show electric construction machines can significantly reduce annual operating costs because electricity is typically cheaper than diesel fuel, while maintenance needs are reduced.
Charging and Jobsite Planning
One of the main differences with electric equipment is the need for charging infrastructure.
Most compact electric machines can operate for a full work shift before requiring a recharge, with overnight charging commonly used between shifts.
Contractors planning the use of electric equipment should consider:
- Access to jobsite power
- Overnight charging capabilities
- Charging schedules for multi-shift operations
- Battery performance during cold weather
Some modern equipment also includes advanced battery management systems to maintain performance in colder climates like Ontario.
As charging infrastructure continues to expand, these logistical challenges are becoming easier to manage.
Improving Safety on the Jobsite in Ontario
Electric equipment can also support improved safety.
Without diesel exhaust, job sites experience cleaner air, which can reduce respiratory exposure risks for workers. Quieter machines also make it easier for crews to hear alarms, instructions, and other important communication.
In confined environments such as tunnels or enclosed structures, electric equipment may even eliminate the need for additional ventilation systems.
These improvements can create healthier working environments for operators and nearby workers alike.
What the Future Looks Like for Electric Equipment in Ontario
The electrification of construction equipment is well on its way to becoming the norm, but industry forecasts suggest further rapid growth in the coming years.
Manufacturers are investing heavily in new battery technologies, hybrid systems and charging solutions to support expanding electric fleets.
As technology improves and costs continue to fall, Bercon Rentals’ electric equipment is expected to become increasingly common on construction sites throughout Ontario.
For contractors and project managers, understanding how these machines work—and where they provide the greatest benefit—will be key to staying competitive in a changing industry.
Powering the Next Generation of Jobsites
Electric construction equipment is not replacing diesel machines overnight, but it is becoming an important part of the modern construction toolkit.
For companies exploring electric equipment options, working with experienced rental providers like Bercon Rentals can help contractors identify the right machines for their projects while staying ahead of evolving job-site demands. Reach out for a free rental quote right now!