…At a test site in Limonest, a municipality in the Métropole de Lyon.
Early this year, the Centre-East RD, in partnership with its customer Eau du Grand Lyon [Lyon water authority], led a test worksite in preparation for the future of our activities.
A growing alternative technical offer and a demanding customer
The range of green equipment for public works has reached a level of maturity which enables us to seriously consider new leads for our activities.
The determination of Métropole du Grand Lyon to move towards energy transition, in line with the regulation for Low Emission Zones, and the engagement of the Grand Lyon water authority have been major levers for this technical approach.
A study presenting multiple challenges
This test forms the first step in a comparative study of various alternative techniques for the execution of our works. The aim is to assess their impact:
- Environmentally: carbon footprint, noise;
- Socially: conditions of use, development of practices, perception of local residents;
- Financially: compliance with pace of work, operating and investment costs.
This approach forms an integral part of SADE Group’s CSR policy.
1 worksite, 3 techniques, 3 zones
The test was carried out on a project to renovate pipelines and 23 water supply branch connections. Half of the branch connections (12) were handled using a standard technique with thermal machinery, vehicles and materials. The other half (11) were carried out using alternative-energy machinery, vehicles and materials (electricity and natural gas). Lastly, the use of the trenchless technique by feedthrough directional drilling to pass under a departmental road was also studied.
Promising initial results
The results of this scientific study are currently being analysed and compiled. Initial findings suggest promising prospects for the use of green machinery on this type of project. The study indicates autonomy, reliability and quality of working conditions (noise levels). These advantages have won the support of the team for future developments of this type.
Another meaningful gesture for the planet, signed and certified by SADE!
Hi-tech measures
The project used e-Lichens, autonomous sensors invented by a Grenoble-based start-up and supported by SADE Ingénierie, which are simple to install and powered by solar panels. They enabled us to measure several environmental parameters (carbon emissions, noise levels, etc.) within and outside the perimeter of the worksite. Given that the reduction in overall noise levels is a key challenge for our activities, an additional measurement campaign was carried out by an external design office.
Local residents involved in the survey
A qualitative survey among local residents, accessible via a QR code displayed on the worksite, was developed in association with the Performance Department.
Carbon 6
This simulation tool for the carbon footprint of a worksite, rolled out by SADE Ingénierie, will enable a targeted assessment of the techniques in use here. The testing of several techniques on a single worksite also allows us to reduce the level of uncertainty for this form of calculation and to enhance the reliability of comparative results. The software was adapted to integrate electric and natural gas machinery. Greater taking into account of material and supplies life cycle analysis is also being planned.
