Energy Transition

Energy Transition in Landscaping

The transition from gas-powered to battery-powered landscaping equipment is gaining momentum across Canada — and beyond. Oak Bay, a municipality on Vancouver Island, has already taken decisive action, with a ban that began in 2023 and will come fully into effect by the end of 2025. Other Canadian cities like Ottawa and Toronto are also in the process of instituting restrictions. In the United States, jurisdictions such as California, Vermont, and the District of Columbia have passed or proposed legislation. This is clearly a growing trend — and the landscape industry in BC needs to be prepared.

Moving Towards Battery-Powered Equipment in British Columbia

This is not just about switching tools - it’s about adapting systems and operations. Charging logistics, upfront costs, company-wide protocol changes, and performance issues all affect how and when businesses can transition.

Industry Challenges

  • Equipment Reliability: Battery life concerns and power requirements for commercial operations
  • Cost Implications: Assumed high upfront costs for electric equipment and charging infrastructure
  • Training Requirements: Workforce adaptation to new maintenance protocols and safety standards
  • Regulatory Variability: Different municipal timelines (e.g., Oak Bay's 2026 phase-out vs Metro Vancouver's ongoing consultation)

BCLNA's Leadership Role

BCLNA is actively representing members across the province in this evolving conversation. Since Metro Vancouver began their work on this in 2019, BCLNA has ensured that landscape professionals have a voice at every stage. We are participating in consultations where we have advocated for:

  • Realistic phase-in timelines for commercial operators
  • Staged implementation plans
  • Financial incentive programs
  • Charging infrastructure support

Why Transition Now?

  • Regulatory Momentum: Metro Vancouver's proposed commercial equipment phase-out
  • Health Benefits: Reduced emissions exposure for workers and communities
  • Operational Advantages: Lower long-term maintenance costs and noise reduction
  • Market Leadership: Early adopters gain competitive advantage in green procurement

While regulations may differ from one municipality to the next, the broader trend across the industry is clear: battery-powered equipment is gaining traction for a range of environmental, operational, and community reasons. Many BCLNA members have already begun making the shift-some started as far back as 20 years ago. Whether or not local bylaws require it yet, this is a transition all landscape professionals should begin preparing for. Staying informed and adaptable will help ensure your business remains competitive, responsive, and resilient in the years ahead.

What You Need to Know

The Benefits

  • Zero direct emissions: Electric equipment avoids harmful outputs like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
  • Quieter operation: Reduces noise pollution, benefiting both crews and communities.
  • Improved air quality: Reduces exposure to fine particulates and volatile organic compounds that impact respiratory and cardiovascular health.
  • Operator health and safety: Workers using gas-powered tools are closest to the exhaust and bear the brunt of these emissions daily. Battery-powered alternatives significantly improve working conditions.
  • Technology growth: Battery-powered equipment continues to improve in runtime, durability, and usability.

The Realities

  • Upfront investment: Electric tools and charging systems can require significant capital, especially for companies with larger fleets.
  • Charging logistics: Managing battery life, charging access, and organizing the infrastructure is critical for full-day use.
  • Performance gaps: Some electric models struggle with power, especially in wet weather, which can reduce battery life and runtime.
  • Rapid evolution: The market is still maturing, which means staying informed and flexible as better solutions emerge.

Metro Vancouver’s Role

Metro Vancouver began exploring this transition in 2019 and has since evolved its approach through roundtables and research. The focus has been on understanding the impacts of small gas-powered equipment in industries such as landscaping - tools like mowers, blowers, and trimmers - which emit a surprising amount of pollution, comparable to nearly half of all cars and pickup trucks in the region.

Their work has shown that while only about 20% of small-engine equipment is used in commercial settings, the frequency and intensity of use by professionals means their emissions are equal to residential use overall.

As of Spring 2025, there is no confirmed plan or implementation strategy. Metro Vancouver staff are still reviewing feedback and determining next steps. The final direction - whether regulations are introduced, more studies are done, or a phased plan is developed - remains undecided. While we wait, BCLNA will continue to represent the needs of industry, ensuring that members are supported and their voices are heard.

Metro Vancouver’s approach has been collaborative and open, and BCLNA appreciates the respectful tone of the conversations to date.

Resources and Articles

Key Documents