Hydrogen generators coupled with battery boxes really are the future, paving the way for the formation of on site microgrids
Tim Burnhope, JCB Group Director of Special Projects
Previewing the JCB Hydrogen Generator
Previewing the JCB Hydrogen Generator
Paving the way for the net-zero worksite of the future.
Since building our first agricultural tipping trailers back in 1945, we’ve always been looking for a better way. This commitment to innovation has fuelled our journey on the road to zero. And now, we’ve taken another huge step forward with the hydrogen generator.
The G60RS H is powered by the pioneering JCB hydrogen combustion engine. Working in conjunction with the JCB Powerpack, it’s a hydrogen powered generator designed to reduce carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
Clean power with maximum efficiency. Discover why this hydrogen generator concept represents the future of work site power.
Making 'Microgrids' powered by Hydrogen and Electric
Our hydrogen powered generator works hand-in-hand with the JCB 3-Phase Powerpack to create an on site 'microgrid'. This turns the Powerpack into the clean power hub on site, while the genset acts as a battery charger – running for short periods, at high efficiency, when the battery needs topping up, or the site needs more power.
As a result, there are two key benefits: a reduction in overall fuel consumption and long periods of silent or quiet operation. This means sites can run for longer, for less fuel costs – introducing new levels of fuel and operational efficiency.
Plus, additional smart management features include timed socket controls and simple integration of on site renewables like solar panels – allowing you to produce and store clean power on site.
It’s everything you’d expect from a diesel-powered generator – the same power and performance, as well as the operation, installation, maintenance and servicing you’re used to. But there’s one all-important difference with a hydrogen generator: it's powered by a zero carbon fuel, hydrogen.
Where can you use a hydrogen engine generator?
The simple answer is anywhere. Most construction sites rely on diesel power because there aren’t sufficient or accessible grid connections for the electric alternative.
But by creating its own ‘microgrid’, the JCB hydrogen generator is a drop-in replacement to decarbonise power and create a ‘microgrid’ on-site, removing the need for diesel.
Set free from fossil fuels, the G60RS H becomes an adaptable power solution that can meet the demands of worksites across all industries, in all kinds of environments. With the capability to power welfare units, lighting towers and so much more, it’s a reliably versatile hydrogen power generator.
Diesel, as a fossil fuel, is incompatible with net zero targets, so many companies have no choice but to move away from this power source. As a clean, accessible alternative, the hydrogen generator is set to become the ideal solution.
Building a hydrogen future
At JCB, we’re committed to bringing hydrogen-powered machines to sites all over the world – and the evolution of the hydrogen generator represents yet another step on this road to zero. We’ve already invested more than £100 million in this endeavour, which has led to some landmark achievements including:
- Becoming the world’s first construction company to create a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen.
- Building over 120 engines as part of the testing and development programme.
- Building a hydrogen refuelling unit that allows convenient refuelling of hydrogen machinery on site.
- Installing the super-efficient hydrogen engines into a 7.5 tonne Mercedes truck, illustrating how this type of power could be a much quicker way to reach global emissions targets.
All this complements the continued expansion of our E-TECH range of electric models – creating zero-emissions options for smaller equipment and larger machines that demand a greater power supply. Just click here to read more about our progress on the Road to Zero.
A reputation of power and reliability
JCB has earned its reputation as a name you can rely on to deliver – so it’s vital our hydrogen-powered machines live up to this legacy.
That’s why every hydrogen generator incorporates cutting-edge technology to operate with the strength and reliability you can depend on.
Our continued innovation and investment in clean power technologies is just one of the reasons JCB remains a trusted name in construction and industrial machinery, all over the world.
Building a greener future: Hydrogen
Innovation. That's what JCB has been delivering for over 75 years. Now we're working on hydrogen combustion engines, so that our agricultural and construction machinery can be net zero on carbon emissions.
How does refuelling work?
To support hydrogen equipment, JCB has developed a hydrogen refuelling unit which stores hydrogen in cylinders.
Road to Zero
It was always our intention to build our own diesel engines and that dream became a reality in 2004. From then on, it was all about continuous improvement and making our engines as fuel-efficient as possible, while reducing harmful emissions.
Discover pioneering electric Powerpacks
Join the leaders in electric innovation – and experience maximum performance with zero compromise. Read our guide to JCB Powerpacks today.
Sustainable products
Out strategy to drive our products to net zero includes multiple approaches. Find out more about our core innovations.