Press release

Mariestad facility at the forefront of fossil-free construction

2025-05-12

Volvo Group is taking a major step toward sustainable industrial operations at its planned Mariestad plant, driven by the vision of “building electricity with electricity.” This initiative integrates cutting-edge electrification and infrastructure solutions to support Sweden’s environmental and energy goals while reinforcing Volvo’s commitment to innovation.

Mariestad facility at the forefront of fossil-free construction

At the heart of this transformation are electric products such as Volvo Energy’s PU500 Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), Volvo Construction Equipment’s electric EC230 excavator, and the Volvo FMX Electric Truck — all powering the construction of the plant and surrounding roadways. Together, they place the Mariestad facility at the forefront of fossil-free construction.

A reliable, well-developed, and given the size of the construction site, mobile charging infrastructure is a crucial component in delivering on our vision of a fossil-free and electrified construction site,” says Victor Bertilson, Head of Construction & Infrastructure at Group Trucks Operations. “It enables us to power a wide range of electric equipment and vehicles directly on-site, reducing dependency on the grid and minimizing emissions during the construction phase. This kind of flexibility not only supports sustainability goals but also helps us maintain efficiency and continuity in our operations.

Victor Bertilson

The Volvo Energy PU500 plays a critical role in this transition. With a capacity of up to 540 kWh, it can charge up to three heavy-duty electric trucks throughout the day. A fully charged unit can power a truck in just 1.5 hours, providing unmatched flexibility — whether connected to the grid or operating in island mode.

Per Englund

The PU500 delivers dependable power wherever it’s needed, making it a perfect fit for a dynamic site like Mariestad,” explains Per Englund, Sales Project Manager at Volvo Energy. Infrastructure improvements led by the Swedish Transport Administration will further enhance site access and safety. Upgrades east of the E20 highway are scheduled for completion in summer 2025, with additional developments west of the highway planned for completion by November 2026. These efforts reflect the strong collaboration between Volvo and local authorities to establish Mariestad as a benchmark for sustainable industrial practices.

What our customers on-site are saying:

I have been working in construction for 35 years, and I’m proud that we’re now using electric equipment to build the Volvo Mariestad plant,” says Stefan Halvardsson, Site Manager at Veidekke, Brodderud–Korstorp. “We can use the PU500 to charge electric trucks and excavators overnight and during lunch breaks. The site is now quieter and cleaner, without pollution.

Stefan Halvardsson

Leif Eriksson

Leif Eriksson, excavator operator at the site, shares: “I’ve been driving diesel excavators since 1973. This is my first time using an electric excavator powered by the PU500. It’s exciting to try something new. I can work for about four hours before recharging, compared to refueling every three days. Inside the cabin, Volvo’s quality filtering and systems keep things quiet and clean, but the real difference is outside, much quieter and cleaner air for the neighborhood.

It’s very easy to charge the truck,” says Johan Wargfors, who drove an electric truck and used the PU500 for the first time. “I think every truck driver should try it. This is the future.