Liebherr Introduces World's First Hydrogen-Powered Wheel Loader in Austria Quarry Pilot Project
Key Ideas
  • Liebherr's hydrogen-powered wheel loader is part of a pilot project at the Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn, Austria with STRABAG, Austria's largest construction company.
  • The wheel loader is powered by a specially modified combustion engine burning hydrogen, potentially reducing up to 100 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
  • A hydrogen filling station provided by Energie Steiermark will refuel the wheel loader directly at the quarry, showcasing the feasibility of green hydrogen in construction machinery.
  • While concerns exist about the sustainability of hydrogen production, the project aims to demonstrate a practical application of hydrogen technology to advance carbon-neutral operations in the construction industry.
Liebherr, a renowned construction and mining equipment company, has unveiled the world's first hydrogen-powered wheel loader. In collaboration with STRABAG, Austria's leading construction firm, the prototype L 566 H wheel loader will undergo a two-year pilot project at the Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn, Austria. The innovative loader, instead of a fuel-cell, operates on a modified combustion engine running on hydrogen, potentially preventing around 100 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually. This initiative aims to address the challenge of electrifying high-energy-demand vehicles, showcasing the feasibility of operating large machinery without carbon emissions. To support the project, a hydrogen filling station supplied by Energie Steiermark will be installed at the quarry to provide the necessary green hydrogen for refueling. The move towards green hydrogen is a significant step in promoting sustainable practices in the construction industry. While some skepticism exists regarding the sustainability of hydrogen production, with concerns raised about the source of energy used, the Liebherr-STRABAG project serves as a practical example of applying hydrogen technology in real-world scenarios. The project aligns with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality, with STRABAG aiming to be climate neutral by 2040 through comprehensive carbon dioxide reduction measures. This initiative highlights the potential of hydrogen technology to revolutionize construction machinery operations and contribute to a greener future. Despite challenges in hydrogen production sustainability, the pilot project signifies a positive step towards reducing carbon emissions in the construction sector.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.