The cement industry is embracing green logistics by piloting the use of electric vehicles (E-trucks), with approximately 150 E-trucks already deployed, according to top officials at the CII-Green Cementech 2024 conference. Neeraj Akhoury, President, Cement Manufacturers' Association (CMA) & MD of Shree Cement Ltd, discussed the challenges and benefits of employing E-trucks in the industry.

In addition to exploring green logistics, the cement industry aims to invest approximately Rs 400 billion to add around 40 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) capacity each year, totalling 100-120 MTPA over the next three years. This translates to an investment of roughly Rs 10 billion for each MT of capacity.

Despite challenges such as higher ownership costs, heavy batteries, inadequate charging infrastructure, and limited EV range, the industry sees potential in E-trucks for reducing long-term operating costs. A report on 'Greening Logistics: Electrification in Cement & Raw Material Transport' by CII and CMA highlights the industry's leadership in deploying EVs for material handling and dispatch operations, even on routes exceeding 100 kilometers.

Madhavkrishna Singhania, Chairman, Green Cementech 2024 & Deputy MD & CEO, JK Cement Ltd, emphasised the long-term benefits of reduced emissions, lower energy costs, and regulatory compliance. With the cement industry heavily reliant on road transport and internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks for material transportation, E-trucks offer the potential to reduce logistic costs by 25-40%. Moreover, E-trucks powered by renewable energy could achieve up to 100% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to ICE trucks, which emit approximately 6 kg of CO2 per tonne of cement transported over a 100 km range. (ET Infra)