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As you most likely know, Pacific has evaluated the developing battery landscape equipment and has a goal of transitioning as the technology becomes affordable to operate. As shown above, operating a backpack blower all day long, especially in the fall, might require up to four high-capacity batteries, bringing the total investment to $4,100 compared to $600 for a gas version. In addition, the strongest battery blower produces only 60–70% of the power of a typical commercial model. The cost to our customers to utilize battery blowers would be staggering, considering the capital cost and reduced productivity. See this article about Oregon State University facilities, which experimented with battery blowers and found them impractical to use: (Gas vs. Electric Leaf Blowers: Which Option Is More Sustainable?)
However, in addition to our team’s desire to transition based on our environmental protection commitment and client interest, we are also preparing for new legislation passed a year ago. The Portland City Council unanimously voted to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers starting January 1, 2026 (Portland Gas Leaf Blower Phase-Out)
As you may also recall, we hosted a National Gas to Electric Symposium at the Nike Campus last November, organized by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (landscapeprofessionals.org) and The American Green Zone Alliance (agza.net). These organizations have partnered to help facilitate the responsible transition to electric equipment in the landscape industry. While this is not a simple task, both groups have established a shared goal and vision, working together to achieve it.
This year, we have outfitted new trailers to hold our battery equipment and chargers. We are working to learn how to most efficiently and cost-effectively outfit our teams with battery equipment.
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