The UK infrastructure construction sector uses >1bn litres/annum diesel (the wider construction sector accounts for circa 14% UK diesel consumption, ONS) with used to power construction plant and 1/3 for generators producing electricity for power, lighting and heating. There are an estimated 25-30,000 items of construction plant in the UK including dozers, dumpers, excavators, loaders, forklifts, rollers, sweepers, telehandlers, tractors; with c.14Mtonnes CO2/annum emitted. Construction plant manufacturers are developing both hydrogen and electricpowered alternatives to diesel. The likelihood is that both forms of power will be needed in addressing the wide range of scenarios for site construction. Hydrogendriven vehicles may be better suited to remote/rural areas where fuel deliveries can be effectively managed, whereas electric powered vehicles may be optimal in urban areas due to available charging infrastructure and tighter emissions/noise restrictions. However, hydrogen and electricity driven vehicles are not likely to be available yet available on a commercial basis for at least the next 25 years and, given the capital investment represented by the large existing fleet of diesel fuelled construction plant, there is a need for a phased transition to their use.
Element 1’s first project demonstration day is a success
One of the excavators converted under the Element 1 project has been deployed for the first time at the BAM Victoria North project in Manchester. At a demonstration day held for all project partners and additional guests, visitors could see the machine successfully...
