Landmark Hydrogen-Powered Plant Trial Paves the Way to Net Zero in Kent
Key Ideas
  • Gallagher Group, in collaboration with partners, hosted a successful hydrogen-powered plant trial at Hermitage Quarry in Kent, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen to decarbonize heavy construction machinery.
  • The trial showcased a JCB 540-180H Loadall that operated safely, effectively, and with zero tailpipe emissions, indicating a potential CO2 saving of around 205kg per machine per week compared to traditional diesel-powered machinery.
  • The initiative aligns with Gallagher Group's commitment to Net Zero by 2050 and the Lower Thames Crossing project's goal to eliminate diesel use from its construction sites by 2027, contributing to the UK's greenest road project with a 70% reduction in construction carbon.
  • The involvement of Gallagher Group supports the growth of a hydrogen ecosystem in the Thames Estuary, expected to bring significant economic benefits including a £3.8 billion initiative and the creation of 9,000 skilled jobs by 2035.
Gallagher Group, in partnership with the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) project, JCB, and Ryze Power, conducted a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered plant trial at Hermitage Quarry in Kent. The aim of the trial was to showcase the potential of hydrogen in decarbonizing heavy construction machinery. The trial featured a JCB 540-180H Loadall that effectively replaced a traditional diesel-powered machine during masonry operations at the quarry. Not only did the hydrogen-powered machinery operate safely and efficiently, but it also demonstrated zero tailpipe emissions and a significant CO2 saving compared to conventional diesel-powered equipment. The successful trial aligns with Gallagher Group's commitment to becoming Net Zero by 2050 and supports LTC's ambition to eliminate diesel use from its construction sites by 2027. The use of hydrogen in construction machinery is seen as a vital step towards providing low-carbon construction solutions that are not only practical but also scalable. The involvement of Gallagher Group in this trial signifies their dedication to adopting innovative and sustainable practices in the construction industry. The partnership between Gallagher Group, LTC, and other collaborators also contributes to the creation of a hydrogen ecosystem in the Thames Estuary. This initiative is projected to bring significant economic growth, with an estimated value of £3.8 billion and the creation of 9,000 skilled jobs by 2035. Matt Palmer, executive director of Lower Thames Crossing, emphasized the importance of using clean low-carbon hydrogen power at a large scale to reduce carbon footprint, accelerate the shift away from diesel in the construction industry, and kick-start the development of a hydrogen ecosystem in the region. The trial at Hermitage Quarry marks a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving Net Zero goals and promoting sustainable practices in the construction sector.
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