Revolutionizing Construction with Hydrogen Power at Gallagher’s Hermitage Quarry
Key Ideas
  • A successful trial at Gallagher’s Hermitage Quarry in Kent demonstrated the safe operation of a hydrogen-powered JCB Loadall, showcasing the potential for zero tailpipe emissions and significant CO₂ savings compared to diesel.
  • The Lower Thames Crossing project in the UK is pioneering low-carbon construction, aiming for a 70% reduction in construction carbon by 2027, with plans to eliminate diesel from construction sites and utilize electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered machinery.
  • By committing to a large-scale use of hydrogen to power its construction machinery, the Lower Thames Crossing will drive the construction industry's transition away from diesel, stimulate the development of a hydrogen ecosystem in the Thames Estuary, and create 9,000 highly skilled jobs by 2035.
  • The project, set to be the greenest road in the UK, will not only enhance road capacity and connectivity but also focus on environmental sustainability by planting trees, creating community woodlands, public parks, and pathways for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.
The Gallagher’s Hermitage Quarry in Kent hosted a successful trial utilizing a JCB Loadall powered by a hydrogen combustion engine, showcasing its potential for zero emissions and CO₂ savings. The Lower Thames Crossing project in the UK is leading the way in low-carbon construction, aiming to eliminate diesel from construction sites by 2027 and utilize electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered machinery. This commitment to hydrogen will not only reduce carbon emissions but also stimulate the creation of a hydrogen ecosystem in the Thames Estuary and create 9,000 skilled jobs by 2035. By awarding contracts for hydrogen supply and distribution, the project will accelerate the construction industry's shift towards sustainable practices. The innovative use of hydrogen in construction machinery is a significant step towards decarbonization and sustainable development. The Lower Thames Crossing project aims to be the greenest road in the UK by incorporating environmental initiatives such as planting trees, creating public parks, and developing pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. The project, which received planning permission in March 2025, targets a construction start in 2026 and an opening in the early 2030s, with a focus on enhancing road capacity and connectivity while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.