In the quest for a sustainable future, the construction industry is turning to an unlikely hero: hydrogen. Described by Bill Gates as the “Swiss Army knife of decarbonization,” hydrogen is emerging as a potent alternative to diesel, promising to slash emissions without compromising power. With nearly three times the energy content of diesel or gasoline and producing only water when burnt, hydrogen’s allure is undeniable. Despite challenges in production and infrastructure, manufacturers and rental firms are embracing this clean, energy-dense fuel.
**JCB Leads the Hydrogen Revolution**
At the forefront of this shift is UK-based manufacturer JCB. In January, the company announced a groundbreaking achievement: its hydrogen combustion engine (HCE) received licensing and approval for commercial use. With certifications from 11 European licensing authorities, including the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany, and France, JCB is paving the way for hydrogen-powered construction machinery.
“This is a very significant moment for JCB,” said chairman Anthony Bamford. “To start the New Year with certification in place in so many European countries bodes very well for the future of hydrogen combustion technology.”
JCB’s hydrogen journey began with a prototype engine unveiled in January 2023, followed by an international debut at CONEXPO that March. The company has since invested around US$122 million, involving 150 engineers, and produced over 130 evaluation engines for various machinery.
But JCB isn’t stopping at engines. The company has also developed a hydrogen generator, the G60RS H, which matches the power and performance of its diesel counterparts but with zero emissions. This generator offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of zero-carbon worksites.
**AFC Energy Powers Ahead**
Sharing JCB’s vision is AFC Energy, a UK-based specialist in hydrogen fuel cell generators. In February 2025, the company launched its second-generation H-Power S+ 200kW Generator, designed for construction and off-grid power applications. This upgraded unit is smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective than its predecessor, making it a viable option for widespread hydrogen adoption.
AFC Energy’s hydrogen generator will be deployed via its partner Brett Aggregates, supported by the UK government’s Red Diesel Replacement Grant. This initiative, part of the £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, aims to drive clean energy technology adoption in construction and related sectors.
AFC Energy’s collaboration with Speedy Hire led to the launch of Speedy Hydrogen Solutions Ltd, a joint venture renting hydrogen fuel cell-powered generators. The positive customer reception underscores the growing demand for clean, efficient power solutions.
**TCP Group Illuminates the Way**
Meanwhile, UK-based manufacturer and plant hire company TCP Group has reached an impressive milestone: operating a fleet of 500 hydrogen fuel-cell mobile lighting towers. The TCP Ecolite TH200, powered by a HYMERA fuel cell, is a popular choice for temporary lighting due to its zero emissions and silent operation.
“The TCP Ecolite TH200 is an increasingly popular choice where temporary lighting is required as companies look for clean energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions,” said Jim Irvine, operations and development director at TCP Group.
TCP Group has also converted hundreds of old diesel-powered units to hydrogen fuel cells, demonstrating its commitment to recycling and sustainability.
**Haulotte’s Hydrogen Ascent**
Across the channel, France-based Haulotte is making strides in hydrogen adoption. The company’s HS18 E PRO scissor lift, powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, is a testament to its commitment to electric and hydrogen-powered machines.
Haulotte’s hydrogen journey began in 2018 when it switched all its machines to electrical mode. The electric HS18 E, launched in 2021, initially featured a removable diesel range extender. Following a partnership with Bouygues Energies & Services, Haulotte replaced the diesel extender with a hydrogen fuel cell version, offering the same electricity generation capability.
The hydrogen range extender was first used on site in October 2024 at the Saint-Cyr-l’É