UK Paves the Way for Hydrogen-Powered Machinery on Public Roads
Key Ideas
  • Lilian Greenwood, minister for the Future of Roads, signs a statutory instrument allowing hydrogen-fueled construction and agricultural machinery on UK public highways.
  • JCB's chairman, Anthony Bamford, considers the move historic and highlights a £100 million project for hydrogen combustion engines to power JCB's machines.
  • The legislation change enables the road use of hydrogen-fueled non-road mobile machinery, marking a milestone for the use of hydrogen in construction and agricultural industries.
  • This endorsement of hydrogen as a zero-carbon fuel supports the UK's Plan for Change, promoting innovation, job creation, and a transition towards a net-zero economy.
In the UK, Lilian Greenwood, the minister for the Future of Roads, has taken a significant step by signing a statutory instrument that allows hydrogen-fueled construction and agricultural machinery to use public highways. This move has been welcomed by JCB's chairman, Anthony Bamford, who initiated a £100 million project aimed at developing hydrogen combustion engines for JCB's machines. The introduction of hydrogen-powered diggers and tractors on UK roads is seen as a historic moment and a substantial milestone in utilizing hydrogen as a zero-carbon fuel in the construction and agricultural sectors. The endorsement from the government is not only a boost for British businesses like JCB but also aligns with the UK's Plan for Change, emphasizing the importance of innovation, job creation, and supporting the transition to a net-zero economy. The amendment to the Road Vehicles Regulations now allows hydrogen-fueled non-road mobile machinery to operate on public roads, with the legislative change coming into effect in late April. This development signifies a positive shift towards sustainable infrastructure and highlights the role of hydrogen technology in driving environmental sustainability and industry innovation.
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