Features | 29.05.2024 | 2 min read
Hitachi Energy’s HyFlex™ hydrogen-powered generator pilot project is the first demonstration at a customer site in Sweden and is an important step towards electrifying and decarbonizing the construction industry.
Many construction sites today rely on diesel generators for onsite power generation, leading to carbon emissions. This is particularly true for remote projects that do not have access to the electrical grid. Hydrogen can therefore play an important role in reducing the industry’s dependence on fossil fuels and meeting net zero targets by reducing emissions through electrification. Hitachi Energy is developing hydrogen-to-power solutions, and the HyFlex Hydrogen Power Generator is central to this.
Recently, Hitachi Energy collaborated with one of the world’s leading project development and construction groups, Skanska, to support the decarbonization of their construction site at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden using its HyFlex generator.
The HyFlex unit uses green hydrogen supplied by Linde Gas to generate clean electricity for a charging station that supplies power to a Volvo electric excavator used for civil work on the site. This pilot project serves as a critical technology demonstration of how the HyFlex generator can help decarbonize heavy industry.
HyFlex is a clean alternative to diesel generators and is completely emission-free during operation – producing alternating current (AC) power, usable heat, and water. HyFlex produces electricity in fuel cells through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Because there is no combustion, harmful Nitrous Oxide (NOx) and Sulfur Oxide (SOx) emissions are also eliminated.
HyFlex can mitigate up to 1,600 tons of diesel fuel annually, reducing 5,800 tons of CO2 emissions. By comparison, a 1 MegaVolt Ampere (MVA) diesel generator uses around 225 kg of diesel and emits 720 kg of CO2 emissions per hour.
The HyFlex generator is highly scalable and includes fuel cell modules, power electronics, cooling, auxiliaries, and an intelligent control system. Hitachi Energy’s technology partner, PowerCell Group, has provided the power modules and know-how in fuel cell integration. The plug-and-play unit is enclosed in an easily transportable container and produces minimal noise during operation.
Fossil-free construction sites are important to the construction sectors strive for net zero emissions. To succeed in the climate transition, cooperation with other sectors is crucial. This test was made possible by the great teamwork with Hitachi Energy, Volvo, and other partners.
The joint project in Sweden is a testament to what is possible when like-minded companies come together with a common goal. Such collaborative efforts are crucial to maturing breakthrough technologies and accelerating the industry's journey to carbon neutrality.
At Hitachi Energy, we are committed to supporting our customers’ transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives.
There is no one key that will unlock our decarbonization journey. At Volvo Group, we strongly believe that different solutions are needed if we are to accelerate our customers’ transition towards fossil-free sites. This project is testament to the power of partnership and a flexible decarbonization approach that sees different technologies, and companies, working towards a shared goal. Together, we make the most sustainable choice today so that every step we take moves us closer towards net zero.
Hitachi Energy is currently developing several modular variants of the HyFlex generator for various markets and applications, including remote construction sites, mines, large-scale events, and data centers. The unit installed at the Port of Gothenburg site was a scaled-down version of the commercial offering which will be available soon.
This milestone joint undertaking will pave the way for future HyFlex deployments and further reinforces Hitachi Energy’s position as a forerunner in developing sustainable technologies.
