Strabag and Liebherr have initiated a project to test a hydrogen-powered wheel loader at the Gratkorn quarry. This move aims to significantly reduce the operation’s carbon footprint.
For the first time, green hydrogen will replace traditional diesel to power a large wheel loader. This switch could save up to 37,500 liters of diesel, equating to approximately 100 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
In an event attended by Leonore Gewessler, the Federal Minister for Climate Action and Environment, Strabag, Liebherr, and Energie Steiermark launched their pilot project. Strabag aims to become climate-neutral by 2040 and is committed to reducing carbon emissions across its entire value chain.
Strabag, in collaboration with Liebherr and Energie Steiermark, strives to develop and test innovative powertrain solutions. Liebherr recently introduced a wheel loader powered by a hydrogen engine. Herbert Pfab, Technical Managing Director at Liebherr-Werk Bischofshofen GmbH, highlighted the significance of hydrogen engines in operating large vehicles that are otherwise challenging to electrify.
Strabag is also implementing other sustainable measures in its quarry operations. At the Saalfelden site, several diesel-powered machines have been replaced with electric conveyor belts. One such conveyor generates electricity for its use through the weight of the stones it moves.
