A groundbreaking green energy trial led by Kier and the Environment Agency is showing promising early results at the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier construction site in Somerset. The trial explores the use of solar power combined with green hydrogen fuel cells as a primary energy source for construction sites where mains electricity is unavailable.
Launched in January 2025, the minimum 12-month trial aims to assess whether this hybrid renewable energy solution is viable and scalable for large-scale construction projects. The site’s office and welfare facilities have been powered using this setup, delivering a total of 16,047 kWh of energy between January and April. Of that, 6,588 kWh came from solar panels, 9,171 kWh from green hydrogen, and 287 kWh from backup batteries.
Compared to running the site solely on diesel generators, the renewable system has helped avoid the use of approximately 20,000 litres of diesel and prevented around 53,000 kg of CO₂e emissions. This is equivalent to driving 195,000 miles in an average diesel car or taking 350 one-way flights from London to Glasgow.
The system operates with zero emissions at the point of use, combining solar panels, hydrogen fuel cells, and integrated battery storage to ensure a stable and continuous power supply. In addition to lowering emissions, the solution reduces noise pollution and eliminates spill risks associated with diesel generators, offering environmental benefits for both people and local wildlife.
“This trial is a critical step in understanding the practical application of renewable energy solutions on construction sites,” said Jo Driffield, Senior Engineer with the Environment Agency’s Innovation Team. “Supporting Kier’s innovation through our Innovation Fund is part of our broader goal to help decarbonize the construction industry and advance toward our net zero objectives.”
Hannah McIlroy, Communications and Sustainability Director at Kier Natural Resources, Nuclear & Networks, commented, “This trial reflects our commitment to collaborating with clients and the supply chain to reduce emissions. The positive response so far has been encouraging, and we’re excited to share more as the trial progresses.”
Technology partner TCP Group has been instrumental in deploying and monitoring the hybrid power system, marking this as their largest hybrid hydrogen site welfare installation to date. Insights from the trial have already led to system improvements, such as integrating an additional fuel cell and optimizing cooling systems. The team has also embedded real-time energy data into site communications to promote awareness and encourage sustainable behavior among site workers.
“We’re proud to collaborate with Kier on this vital initiative,” said Andrew Barker, Managing Director of TCP Group. “The data we’re gathering is invaluable in shaping the future of energy use on construction sites.”
The trial is expected to continue throughout 2025, with the potential to influence hydrogen demand and support investment in green hydrogen infrastructure across the construction sector.