Balfour Beatty has partnered with GeoPura to introduce hydrogen power units at suitable construction sites.
The company claims to be the first in the UK to regularly use hydrogen-powered generators. These hydrogen power units (HPUs) are made by Siemens Energy in Newcastle, following GeoPura’s blueprints. They are set to be used at Balfour Beatty’s UK sites without grid connections needing high power. Even though diesel is still common, Balfour Beatty is pioneering the shift towards alternative power sources.
Currently, only about 20 out of Balfour Beatty’s 300 active sites in the UK use alternatives to diesel generators. The cost of low-carbon alternatives is generally higher and relies on clients who are open to paying more. While not suitable for most sites now, Balfour Beatty is ready for the future. As prices drop, more sites may become appropriate for hydrogen power.
GeoPura, founded in 2019, has created about 50 HPUs so far, planning to add around eight units monthly in 2025. They offer a 250 kW standard unit, and a 500 kW version will be available by early 2025. Supported by investors, including General Motors Ventures, GeoPura is preparing to meet rising demand. Currently, HPUs are two to three times more expensive than diesel generators.
The hydrogen fuel cost is a hurdle, priced similarly to £2.50 per litre, more expensive than traditional diesel. GeoPura aims to boost its fuel delivery, expanding its truck fleet for hydrogen supply. HS2 Ltd supports hydrogen fuel, using GeoPura’s HPUs on several projects.
Kevin Randall from Balfour Beatty states that connecting to the electricity grid is best for powering sites but can take up to nine months. This delay might encourage clients to opt for HPUs despite the higher cost. As hydrogen products become more available and affordable, Balfour Beatty and other UK contractors are set to adopt diesel substitutes, provided clients are supportive.
