Varennes: Leading by Example

Project history

Since 2010, the City of Varennes has been electrifying its operations and now has 18 electric vehicles (EVs) in its fleet. When the municipality learned in 2021 that an electric fire truck had been developed in the United States, it seized the opportunity to become the first city in North America to acquire one.

For the City, the truck is a logical extension of what it has been doing for more than a decade. The truck meets the needs of the fire department, with a range of 225 km.

Social acceptability

As mayor of Varennes since 2009, Martin Damphousse has noted a tremendous progression in the perception of citizens of the environmental initiatives undertaken by the municipality. Although the electric fire truck costs $800,000 more than a similar gasoline-powered truck, the population supports the project. In addition, the city will receive a $500,000 grant from the Green Municipal Fund, which greatly reduces the cost differential.

"In Varennes, we have the means to achieve our ambitions and to be a leader in electrification," said Mayor Damphousse. For the city, the acquisition costs are obviously a factor to consider, but the environmental impact and the exemplary nature of the vehicle are also important. In fact, this truck will generate savings of more than $12,000 per year in fuel and maintenance costs, and more than 13 tons of GHGs will be saved annually.

When EVs lead the way

In Varennes, whenever a vehicle needs to be replaced, the municipality explores EV options on the market. Pickup trucks have also been converted to electric power through a Quebec company located in... Varennes. In addition to the gradual electrification of the municipal fleet, the city is contributing to shared mobility by providing staff with electric scooters for their work trips, a small electric vehicle that allows for efficient travel in urban and semi-urban environments.

In 2023, Varennes will acquire a 100% electric ice resurfacer for its arena, as well as two low-speed electric vehicles for horticulture and park maintenance. These vehicles will replace gasoline-powered pickup trucks. Nearly 30 charging stations will also be installed in municipal parking lots in the near future.

Tips for a successful fleet electrification

The city shares the steps it believes should be taken for successful electrification.

1. Start with one electric vehicle and avoid thinking too big at the beginning.
2. Be confident in the vehicle's charging needs and range. The use of a company car within a municipality is extremely predictable and rarely exceeds 100 km without charging opportunity (at lunch time or at the end of the workday).
3. Approach cities with similar projects for advice. Experienced municipalities are generally very open to sharing their best practices, success stories and expertise.