Kier trials its first green hydrogen power solution at Environment Agency site

A Kier and Environment Agency trial of solar and green hydrogen energy in Somerset is said to have yielded positive results in its early months.

The minimum 12-month trial has been designed to explore whether solar power with a green hydrogen backup is a viable primary power supply on a construction site where access to mains electricity is not available.

The onsite welfare and office facilities at the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier scheme were selected for the trial, with the hope that the data would inform whether this approach is feasible and scalable for the demands of large-scale construction sites.

From the start of January to the end of April 2025, a total of 16,046 kWh has been used at the site – 6,588 kWh from solar power, 9,171 kWh from green hydrogen and 287 kWh from the back-up batteries.

Solar PV and hydrogen trial installation at Bridgwater Tidal Barrier site

When compared to an equivalent diesel generator to run the site with no additional interventions, the trial generated estimated savings of around 20,000 litres of diesel, resulting in approximately 53,000 kgCO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) avoided at the point of use. This is claimed to be the equivalent of 350 one-way flights from London to Glasgow.

The technology supplied to the site aims to be zero emission at the point of use due to its combination of solar panels and hydrogen fuel cells. Incorporating a battery that integrates with solar panels allows the system to convert energy directly into clean, renewable power, resulting in a continuous power supply.

As well as contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions, the hybrid hydrogen solution also reduces noise levels on site for both people and wildlife, and avoids the potential spill risks associated with alternative diesel generators.

Jo Driffield, Senior Engineer, within the Environment Agency Innovation Team said: "This trial is a big step forward to help the Environment Agency realise our net-zero goals and demonstrates the demand for green hydrogen."

Specialist equipment was supplied by TCP Group.

Andrew Barker, Managing Director, TCP Group added: "This is our largest-ever hybrid hydrogen solution for site welfare installed to date. It’s already proving a fantastic opportunity to collaborate and help shape energy conservation practices."

For more information, visit www.kier.co.uk and www.tcp-group.co.uk.