HS2 site trials hydrogen fuel cell-based generators

A HS2 construction site in London, UK has reportedly held successful trials for two zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell power generators. 

The GeoPura hydrogen power units on HS2 site (Photo: HS2)

The GeoPura 250kVA hydrogen power units (HPUs) have been trialled over the last year at HS2’s Victoria Road Crossover Box in Ealing with the aim to replace the current diesel generators that power machinery on site. 

A trial, conducted by HS2’s mains work civils contractor, Skanska Costain Strabag (SCS JV), has shown that the gensets are capable of producing the required energy to power the equipment that is required on-site.

The hydrogen power units are said to provide 100% renewable and emission-free power derived from a hydrogen fuel cell, with power capabilities ranging from 20kW through to 2MW.

They use 100% green hydrogen produced from renewable energy.

Data from the trial has shown that running the units for 400 hours eliminated around 51 tonnes of carbon compared to using standard diesel generators.

James Richardson, managing director of SCS JV said, ”SCS JV is committed to reducing our environmental footprint by identifying innovations to power our site operations, such as trialling this hydrogen fuel cell at our Victoria Road crossover box site.

“We are striving to be diesel-free across all our sites by 2023 and recently announced our first diesel-free site at Canterbury Road.”