Hydrogen deal for Lower Thames Crossing worth £32m | Construction Enquirer News
Summary
GeoPura secures a £32m contract for the Lower Thames Crossing, marking it as the UK’s first major carbon-neutral infrastructure project, utilizing hydrogen and low-carbon fuels.
Why It Matters
This initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable construction practices in the UK, showcasing how major infrastructure projects can integrate clean energy solutions. It highlights the potential for hydrogen to replace traditional fuels, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and supporting the growth of the green economy.
Key Takeaways
- The Lower Thames Crossing will be the UK's first carbon-neutral infrastructure project.
- GeoPura will supply 2,500 tonnes of hydrogen, replacing over 12 million litres of diesel.
- The project aims to save an estimated 30,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
- This contract strengthens the British hydrogen supply chain and supports local jobs.
- The initiative sets a precedent for future sustainable construction practices.
British specialist GeoPura has landed the deal at National Highways’ Lower Thames Crossing project which will be the first major British infrastructure project to be carbon neutral in construction. Diesel will be replaced with hydrogen, electric and other low-carbon fuels across the project. The eight-year deal with GeoPura has already started with six hydrogen powered generators at work on early survey work on the project alongside a JCB hydrogen fuelled digger. Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald, said: “GeoPura and the Lower Thames Crossing collaboration is proof that clean energy goes hand-in-hand with major British infrastructure projects.” Matt Palmer, Executive Director for the Lower Thames Crossing, said: “Today we’ve given the green light to green hydrogen. By replacing diesel with home grown hydrogen, we’re not only reducing our own carbon footprint but also helping clean up the construction sector.” Founded in 2019, GeoPura produces green hydrogen across several locations in the UK via electrolysis powered by locally sourced renewable electricity. Andrew Cunningham, CEO, GeoPura, said: “We’re extremely proud to be supplying the largest volume of green hydrogen ever contracted for a British construction project and I congratulate the Lower Thames Crossing for setting a powerful example of how major infrastructure can be delivered sustainably. “This contract award further strengthens the British hydrogen supply chain driving both price efficiency and British job...