Liebherr and STRABAG Pioneering Decarbonisation: Hydrogen-Powered Wheel Loader Trial
Key Ideas
- Liebherr and STRABAG partner to trial the world's first large hydrogen-powered wheel loader at Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn for two years.
- The L 566 H prototype is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 100 tons annually, showcasing a significant environmental impact.
- The initiative highlights the potential of green hydrogen in decarbonizing the construction sector and supporting Austria's climate neutrality goals.
- Notable figures like Minister Gewessler commend the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of alternative fuels like hydrogen in achieving sustainability.
Liebherr and STRABAG have joined forces in a pioneering project aimed at creating a decarbonized construction environment. The collaboration involves trialling Liebherr's L 566 H hydrogen-powered wheel loader at the Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn, Austria. This ambitious project, launched to tackle emissions in the construction sector, is supported by Energie Steiermark, providing the necessary green hydrogen through an on-site filling station.
The event at the quarry marked the official start of the two-year trial, with key figures like Minister for Climate Action Leonore Gewessler, STRABAG CEO Clemens Haselsteiner, and Energie Steiermark Director Martin Graf in attendance. The hydrogen-powered wheel loader, a technological breakthrough, was showcased in action, receiving praise for its potential in emission reduction.
The L 566 H prototype is set to make a significant impact by potentially slashing CO2 emissions by up to 100 tons per year, equivalent to a substantial reduction in diesel consumption. STRABAG's CEO expressed the company's commitment to becoming climate neutral by 2040, emphasizing the importance of CO2 reduction in construction machinery operations.
Liebherr's hydrogen engine technology, embodied by the L 566 H, represents a crucial step towards decarbonization in industries with high energy demands. The collaboration between Liebherr and STRABAG underscores the positive implications of alternative fuels like hydrogen in achieving sustainability goals.
The project also underscores Austria's focus on green hydrogen as a key element in its journey towards climate neutrality. Minister Gewessler highlighted the significance of green hydrogen in replacing fossil fuels, particularly in industrial applications. The trial at the Gratkorn quarry not only serves as a practical example of hydrogen's potential but also showcases the impactful partnership between Liebherr and STRABAG in driving innovation and emissions reduction.