In a groundbreaking move, JCB, a construction equipment firm based in Uttoxeter, has entered into a multi-billion-pound deal with Australian company Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) to procure green hydrogen produced from non-fossil fuel sources. This partnership is being hailed as the first of its kind and signifies a significant leap towards utilizing sustainable energy alternatives. The agreement involves JCB purchasing 10% of FFI's green hydrogen output, with FFI responsible for production and logistics, while JCB and Ryze focus on distribution and stimulating customer demand. Green hydrogen, generated using electricity from renewable sources, is deemed by FFI's CEO Julie Shuttleworth as the 'fuel of the future.' She emphasizes its pivotal role in decarbonizing heavy industry globally and enabling the production of various industrial goods. JCB's chairman, Lord Bamford, lauds this deal as crucial in the journey towards establishing green hydrogen as a feasible solution. Earlier, JCB revealed its investment of £100 million in developing zero-emission hydrogen engines to power its equipment, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. By expanding its engineering team and planning to introduce hydrogen-powered machines to the market by the end of 2022, JCB aims to drive the adoption of eco-friendly technologies. The collaboration positions Fortescue Future Industries as a key green hydrogen supplier in the UK, contributing to the country's efforts in embracing renewable energy and combating climate change.