Innovative Solar and Green Hydrogen Power Solution at Bridgwater Tidal Barrier Scheme
Key Ideas
- Kier and Environment Agency trial solar and green hydrogen energy at the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier scheme in Somerset, showing promising results in reducing carbon emissions.
- The trial has saved an estimated 20,000 liters of diesel and avoided approximately 53,000 kgCO2e, equivalent to the savings from 195,000 miles in an average diesel car or 350 one-way flights from London to Glasgow.
- The technology aims to provide a zero-emission power supply through a mix of solar panels, hydrogen fuel cells, and batteries, contributing to a quieter and cleaner construction site environment.
- Collaboration between Kier, Environment Agency, and TCP Group has been crucial in implementing this innovative sustainable energy solution, with a focus on data monitoring and real-time energy usage tracking.
Kier and the Environment Agency have initiated a minimum 12-month trial of a solar and green hydrogen power solution at the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier scheme in Somerset. This trial aims to determine the feasibility and scalability of using solar power with green hydrogen backup as the primary power supply in construction sites without access to mains electricity. The early months of the trial have shown promising results, with 6,588 kWh from solar power, 9,171 kWh from green hydrogen, and 287 kWh from backup batteries used between January and April 2025.
Compared to using an equivalent diesel generator, the trial has resulted in estimated savings of around 20,000 liters of diesel and approximately 53,000 kgCO2e avoided at the point of use. This reduction in carbon emissions is significant, equivalent to the emissions saved from 195,000 miles in an average diesel car or 350 one-way flights from London to Glasgow.
The technology deployed combines solar panels, hydrogen fuel cells, and batteries to provide a zero-emission power supply on-site. This setup not only reduces carbon emissions but also lowers noise levels and eliminates the spill risks associated with traditional generators. The partnership between Kier, the Environment Agency, and TCP Group has been instrumental in implementing this innovative solution, focusing on real-time energy monitoring and data tracking to optimize energy usage and promote sustainability in the construction industry.
The positive feedback from key figures like Jo Driffield and Hannah McIlroy underlines the importance of such trials in driving towards net zero goals and a sustainable future. The collaboration with specialists from TCP Group has enabled valuable insights into energy conservation practices, with plans to expand the use of fuel cells and incorporate energy usage data into internal communication to encourage behavioral change. Overall, the trial showcases the potential of solar and green hydrogen solutions in reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainability in the construction sector.