Hydrogen in Action: Landmark Trial for Road Building

The UK’s journey toward low-carbon construction marked a significant milestone with the completion of its first large-scale hydrogen-powered equipment trial. The initiative, part of the Lower Thames Crossing development, showcased the practical viability of hydrogen combustion in heavy construction machinery. Conducted at a quarry in Kent, the trial replaced a conventional diesel machine with a hydrogen-fuelled alternative. Results demonstrated that the equipment operated safely, with zero tailpipe emissions and a carbon reduction of approximately 205 kilograms per machine each week.

The trial supports the Lower Thames Crossing’s target to cut construction emissions by 70 percent. The project, set to start as early as 2026, will integrate hydrogen and electric-powered machinery to eliminate diesel use on site by 2027. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to make the new crossing Britain’s most environmentally responsible road infrastructure to date. Alongside environmental gains, the project also lays the groundwork for developing a hydrogen ecosystem in the Thames Estuary, forecasted to generate £3.8 billion in economic value and create around 9,000 skilled jobs by 2035.

This successful demonstration contributes momentum toward transitioning the construction sector away from fossil fuels. It also provides the confidence and data necessary for suppliers and contractors to invest in hydrogen technology, training, and infrastructure.

Following is a video discussing the project trial hydrogen powered construction.