Background

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.