The Cost of Going Green: Is Investing in Battery-Powered Lawn Equipment Worth it? 

When considering making the switch to energy-efficient lawn equipment, many are hesitant to follow through due to the upfront costs associated with it. Professional and non-commercial battery-powered lawn equipment is associated with a higher price tag than its petroleum gas-powered counterparts. Not to mention, all of the gear needed to maintain use of the equipment, like battery packs and power stations, can stack up to make this sort of investment seem one not worth the time and money involved. However, this kind of investment is exactly that. Although fewer consumers have gotten on board with electronic equipment, those who have are seeing a large return on their investment.  

Local and Government Incentives

To encourage the purchase of battery-powered lawn equipment and the reduction of emissions, some local governments have done their part by offering incentives to residents. Maricopa County is offering its locals the opportunity to exchange their fuel-based lawn equipment for a voucher that they can use to purchase a new battery-powered one. The “Mowing Down Pollution” program is just an example of how some local ordinances are making the switch easier for their residents. Other state and city governments have implemented similar programs to promote healthier environments for their residents. There are many resources for people to see what tax credits, rebates, and grants may be available to them. The U.S. Department of Energy makes it easy by allowing those who visit their site to simply click a state on the map and be able to access the state laws and incentives in it.

The U.S. government has also tried incentivizing clean energy by creating the Inflation Reduction Act. This act provides a tax credit for qualifying vehicles, including large, commercial-grade lawn mowers. Taking advantage of this credit could mean 30% of the purchase price per piece of equipment, allowing up to $7,500 each. 

Return on Investment

While the upfront costs of energy-efficient lawn equipment may seem excessive, there are many factors showing that this kind of investment will eventually pay off. Compared to gasoline-powered equipment, battery-powered equipment has far fewer variable costs; there is little need for maintenance on this type of equipment, and electricity is far cheaper than fuel. The life cycle of these products also tends to be longer than that of a typical fuel-based piece of equipment, keeping professionals from having to update their fleet constantly. Additionally, many have seen that the warranty periods are coming close to the life expectancy, reducing costs further. 

Investing in battery-powered lawn equipment has also proven to open new markets for professionals. Offering quiet, low-emission lawn care can be sold to consumers as an upscale professional service. Places like retirement homes and homeowners’ associations are eager to employ companies that offer this kind of service, as it improves environmental conditions. The reduced sound emissions also allow companies to extend their operating hours, increasing revenue and customer outreach.