JCB takes “major step” on hydrogen journey

Photo: JCB

JCB has said that it has taken “another major step” in the process of evaluating hydrogen as a fuel of the future with the first showing of its new concept hydrogen generator. 

Shown at the Hillhead show in the UK last month, the G60RS H is powered by a JCB hydrogen combustion engine that it said to deliver the same power, performance and efficiency as its diesel equivalent but with zero-emissions.

The company said the generator offers a “glimpse into the future of zero carbon worksites” and joins a range of 115 “evaluation engines” that it has developed to power equipment with hydrogen. 

At the show, which took place from 25th to 27th June, the company revealed how the G60RS H can work in tandem with its three-phase Powerpack to create on-site ‘microgrids’, – utilising both battery-electric and hydrogen combustion technology.

JCB said the hydrogen generator effectively becomes a battery charger when paired with the Powerpack, only running for short periods when the battery needs topping up, or at peak load points.

Tim Burnhope, group director of special projects, said, “Hydrogen generators coupled with battery boxes really are the future, paving the way for the formation of on-site microgrids.

“Construction sites today rely on diesel power because there are insufficient or inaccessible grid connections, but because diesel is incompatible with net zero targets, customers are rightly seeking alternatives.

“A hydrogen generator offers that alternative, providing clean power on-site. It delivers zero carbon power to the worksite for anything from welfare units to lighting towers. It also works in the same way as its diesel counterpart, ensuring familiar operation, installation, maintenance, and servicing.”