ALBERT LEA, Minn. — Albert Lea’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is swapping gas-powered vehicles for electric bikes to get around its 40-acre facility.
The city received a $3,150 grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to help buy two e-bikes for use at the wastewater treatment facility. The bikes are outfitted to carry tools and testing equipment, allowing staff to use them for daily inspections, water sampling and minor repairs throughout the complex.
The two e-bikes can replace two gas-powered vehicles used at the plant — a four-wheeler and a full-size pickup — for many routine trips. Even in colder months, staff plan to use the e-bikes on warmer winter days and when there are no snow banks to traverse.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent Brandon Huston said the bikes offer more than just a different way to get around.
“By switching to e-bikes, we can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which will lower greenhouse gas emissions and lower our carbon footprint at our facility,” Huston said.
The e-bikes are expected to reduce fuel and maintenance costs associated with the plant’s larger gas-powered vehicles while providing staff with a cleaner, more efficient way to move around the facility.
As a Blue Zones community, Albert Lea has long promoted opportunities to incorporate movement into everyday life. Huston said riding the e-bikes gives plant employees a way to stay energized through exercise while carrying out their regular work.
The two e-bikes will cost $4,200 in total. The state grant covers 75% of the expense, with the city contributing the remaining $1,050.