March 5, 2025
The Big Switch?
What landscape professionals really think about going electric
According to the results of the 2024 State of the Industry survey conducted by Landscape Trades, the transition from gas to electric or battery-powered equipment in the landscape and horticulture industry is met with mixed feelings and several challenges.
We asked how landscape professionals feel they can make a difference in the world while also improving public perception of the green trades. Respondents were largely small landscape business owners or independent contractors across several industry sectors.
A majority of respondents said they do plan to acquire new equipment this year. When asked if they’re planning to switch from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment, many said yes. Only a small percentage plans to switch everything, but nearly 30 per cent indicated they’ll add at least a few pieces this year. But overall, more respondents do not plan to switch at all.
Plenty of landscapers are still unsure about adopting battery-powered equipment, which leaves the door open for brands to demonstrate how their solutions solve problems. We asked survey participants about their hesitancy to switch and, given the opportunity to choose multiple options, respondents highlighted four main barriers: battery-powered equipment won’t have enough runtime to finish the job, it won’t be as powerful as existing gas-powered options, it is too costly and recharging will slow crews down.
What are the most significant ways the landscape/horticulture industry can make a difference in the world?*Respondents were given the opportunity to choose more than one option. |
 |
Over 20 per cent of respondents to this question cited adopting electric technology and shifting away from reliance on fossil fuels as a way to make a significant impact on the world.
With plenty of focus on the environment and the desire to create welcoming outdoor spaces that promote community and wellness, it’s no wonder there’s a surge of electric equipment coming to market. And as municipalities across Canada consider banning gas-powered landscaping equipment, it’s got a lot of people thinking about the tools they depend on to create those serene, rejuvenating and environmentally friendly landscapes.
With plenty of focus on the environment and the desire to create welcoming outdoor spaces that promote community and wellness, it’s no wonder there’s a surge of electric equipment coming to market. And as municipalities across Canada consider banning gas-powered landscaping equipment, it’s got a lot of people thinking about the tools they depend on to create those serene, rejuvenating and environmentally friendly landscapes.
Ready to make the switch?
Do you plan to switch any gas-powered equipment to battery-powered in 2025? |
 |
A majority of respondents said they do plan to acquire new equipment this year. When asked if they’re planning to switch from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment, many said yes. Only a small percentage plans to switch everything, but nearly 30 per cent indicated they’ll add at least a few pieces this year. But overall, more respondents do not plan to switch at all.
Plenty of landscapers are still unsure about adopting battery-powered equipment, which leaves the door open for brands to demonstrate how their solutions solve problems. We asked survey participants about their hesitancy to switch and, given the opportunity to choose multiple options, respondents highlighted four main barriers: battery-powered equipment won’t have enough runtime to finish the job, it won’t be as powerful as existing gas-powered options, it is too costly and recharging will slow crews down.
What are the main barriers to increasing your adoption of electric equipment?*Respondents were given the opportunity to choose more than one option. |
 |
We also invited respondents to share their thoughts about transitioning from gas-powered equipment to electric, which uncovered a range of perspectives. They said:
"We need more information on the production of these products and [if] disposing of them is better than what we currently have from an environmental point of view."
Chris H.
"[We are] leaders in our field so have had electric carts for years. Thinking of going back to gas weed eaters and walk-behind mowers."
Catherine M.
"We like to use battery-powered equipment whenever it makes things more efficient."
Nolan
"Electric tools have to keep up with power and longevity.”
Jason G.
"It's going to happen and if the quality and power is there, we are happy to make the change. "
Barbara R.
Market demand
What percentage of your customers have requested crews that use battery-powered equipment? |
 |
Sometimes, change is driven by the consumer, but it doesn’t seem to be an issue for landscape clients so far. Less than 15 per cent of survey respondents have received any request to use quieter battery-powered equipment and the overwhelming majority have had no specific requests. At least, not yet.
Are we there yet?
The landscape industry stands at a crossroads regarding equipment choices. While professional landscapers are dedicated to environmentally responsible best practices, they’re not quite sure the solution has fully materialized with current electric offerings. As municipalities increasingly consider or implement bans on gas-powered equipment, and the market for electric options continues to evolve, it's crucial for landscape professionals to stay informed, explore available solutions and advocate for their needs. The transition to electric equipment holds promise for a greener future, but requires careful consideration of economic viability and operational efficiency.