They’ve had their sceptics, but as battery-powered chainsaws have evolved, more and more forestry professionals have been converted to using them. Here, Husqvarna UK’s H-team ambassador looks at the journey so far and where the technology may be heading. 

THE forestry and arboriculture industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, largely driven by advancements in technology. One of the most impactful developments has been the rise of battery-powered chainsaws. From improving safety to enhancing efficiency, battery-powered tools have reshaped how we approach our work. 

THE EVOLUTION OF BATTERY-POWERED CHAINSAWS

When I first used a battery chainsaw, the Husqvarna 536Li XP, back in 2015, it was completely electronic and even the chain brake was simply a switch that disabled the motor. It felt completely different to a two-stroke saw; the power was instant and the torque maintained at all chain speeds. However, one of the biggest challenges was the lack of feedback – there was no audible or tactile warning before the motor stopped, which was often frustrating, especially when fine-tuning a hinge during felling. 

As technology advanced, so did the tools. The Husqvarna 540i XP introduced a mechanically functioning chain brake and required an additional movement on the safety throttle lockout to activate the trigger, in line with new European regulations. This model has been a market-leader within the industry; however, there’s always room to develop further. Today, the brand-new Husqvarna 542i XP has brought battery chainsaws much closer to the feel of petrol saws. The centrifugal clutch allows operators to sense when they are pushing the saw too hard, replicating the experience of using a petrol-powered tool. The power is equivalent to a 42 cc petrol engine, which makes it ideal for first thinnings and pruning work, but it isn’t yet a replacement for all petrol saws, particularly for heavy tasks where additional cc are required.

Beyond chainsaws, the industry has seen the successful integration of battery-powered pole saws, which are used for high pruning, alongside trimmers, brush cutters, and clearing saws for general forestry maintenance. These tools have undoubtedly made the job more enjoyable by reducing the weight, vibration and emissions.

ECONOMIC DRIVERS BEHIND THE SHIFT

The adoption of battery-powered tools is not just about technology. Economic factors have played a crucial role. Yes, the initial investment in batteries and chargers is higher than purchasing petrol equivalents, but the long-term savings are significant. Once you’ve purchased the batteries and charger, the only ongoing cost is recharging the batteries. This contrasts sharply with ongoing petrol, oil, and maintenance expenses for two-stroke engines, including air filters, starter units and spark plugs.

We’ve also seen the rise of innovative ways to reduce battery running costs, such as using solar panels and using inverters on machinery to charge batteries while working. As fuel prices continue to rise, the cost-effectiveness of battery-powered tools has become even more apparent.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS DRIVING INNOVATION 

The push for more sustainable practices is another major factor driving the adoption of battery-powered chainsaws. As environmental concerns grow, there is a clear shift from fossil fuels to battery power across various industries, and forestry is no exception. The reduced environmental impact of battery-powered tools makes them an attractive option for companies who are mindful of their environmental footprint.

IMPORTANCE OF THEPOWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO

The power-to-weight ratio of chainsaws is a crucial factor that impacts both user experience and productivity. Every chainsaw operator I know looks for the most powerful tool with the least weight. A lighter and more powerful saw is easier to manoeuvre, especially when limbing, which makes the job more enjoyable. From a productivity perspective, a lighter saw reduces operator fatigue, allowing users to maintain peak performance for longer periods.

WANT MORE ON BATTERY POWER?

However, it is also worth considering how heavy a battery saw would need to be to match the power of a 70 cc petrol saw. As battery technology continues to improve, we can expect advancements in power-to-weight ratios that will make battery-powered tools even more competitive with their petrol counterparts.

WHERE PETROL STILL HAS THE EDGE

Despite the many advantages of battery chainsaws, there are still applications where petrol currently remains irreplaceable. I regularly use 50 cc, 60 cc, 70 cc, and 90 cc petrol saws depending on the size of the trees I’m working with. Battery saws certainly have their place, and their quick start and stop capabilities are particularly useful for tasks that require brief periods of cutting and moving between blocks. However, for medium to large felling operations, battery-powered chainsaws have room to grow. 

THE FUTURE OF BATTERY-POWERED CHAINSAWS

Looking ahead, economic and environmental factors are likely to further accelerate the adoption of battery-powered chainsaws. As fuel costs rise and emission restrictions tighten, batteries will become the preferred solution, possibly even the only viable alternative outside of alkylate fuels. This will undoubtedly drive manufacturers to continue investing in battery technology, striving to produce more powerful and lighter tools that can match or exceed the performance of petrol-powered saws.

For the forestry and tree-care industry, being ‘environmentally sensitive’ is not just a trend – it is becoming a necessity. As technology advances, battery-powered tools will likely become the standard, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient way to manage our forests.

The rise of battery-powered chainsaws is just the beginning. The future of forestry and arboriculture looks set to be defined by innovations that make the job safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. As the industry continues to evolve, foresters and arborists will need to stay informed and adaptable, ready to embrace the tools and technologies that will shape the forests of tomorrow.