WJ cuts carbon emissions through fleet electrification

WJ Group, a leader in the highways and wider construction industry, has achieved a major milestone in its sustainability journey, reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 134 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) over the past three years.

This significant reduction – equivalent to saving 52,746 litres of diesel – has been driven by the electrification of the company’s fleet, marking a vital step toward their Science Based Target initiative (SBTi)-verified goal of achieving Net Zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2032.

A key enabler of WJ’s rapid progress has been the adoption of Rightcharge, a specialist in EV charging payment solutions. By implementing Rightcharge’s comprehensive system for home and public EV charging, WJ has effectively eliminated several of the major barriers to fleet electrification.

Drivers now benefit from a single payment card accepted at over 70% of the UK’s public charging points, alongside automated home charging reimbursements, which are paid directly into their energy accounts. This has led to substantial operational cost savings, improved fleet efficiency, and bolstered employee confidence, laying the foundation for a 100% electric company car fleet – currently at 57% plug-in hybrid and 43% fully electric vehicles across more than 70 cars.

Rightcharge’s intelligent dashboard tools have enabled WJ to access detailed insights into fleet charging behaviour, costs, and emissions. This visibility has been crucial for reporting on Scope 1 emissions and monitoring progress against carbon reduction targets. Importantly, the system also provides data on energy sources and carbon intensity, enabling the company to optimise charging schedules for lower-emission periods, such as overnight renewable energy windows.

Previously, WJ lacked a robust system to reimburse home EV charging, limiting cost efficiencies and creating workplace infrastructure pressure. The Rightcharge integration now allows employees to charge vehicles overnight at home, taking advantage of lower electricity tariffs while minimising dependency on depot-based and public charging. This shift ensures drivers begin their day with a full charge and reduces time lost to charging during work hours.

“Electrifying our company car fleet is a key part of our net zero strategy,” said Paul Aldridge, Sustainability Director at WJ Group. “In 2023, during the early stages of our transition, we reduced emissions by 19 tCO₂e. At our current rate of transition, this now equates to an estimated 134 tCO₂e.”

“By enabling employees to charge their vehicles at home, primarily overnight, it helps us support a greener energy mix, as renewable sources are more likely to be utilised by energy operators during this period. This also ensures they start each day with a full charge, reducing reliance on potentially more costly, fossil fuel-based electricity from within depots or public charging stations.”

WJ’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. The company recently received the Environmental Sustainability Award at the 2025 Kier Transportation Supply Chain Awards, recognising its leadership and commitment to sustainable operations in the infrastructure sector.

Rightcharge CEO, Charlie Cook, praised the collaboration: “We’re really proud to support WJ in the electrification of their fleet.

“By removing the barriers to EV charging and simplifying payments for both home and public charging, it’s great to be able to help impressive businesses like WJ accelerate their transition to cleaner transport. It’s inspiring to see the environmental and operational impact this has delivered and we’re excited to be part of WJ’s ongoing journey toward Net Zero”