Balfour Beatty has launched its M77 Hydrogen project to showcase the viability of hydrogen technology for heavy plant and equipment. The initiative, developed through a collaboration lasting over two years with ULEMCo, Logan Energy, and PlusZero Power, is supported by internal funding and financial backing from the Scottish government amounting to £243,000. The primary objective of the project is to achieve a 30% reduction in carbon emissions within the company's heavy vehicle fleet. So far, the company has successfully retrofitted two salt spreader HGVs and one Impact Protection Vehicle (IPV) with a hybrid hydrogen system. The initial results from road tests have been encouraging, with the salt spreaders demonstrating a 26% carbon reduction and the IPV also showcasing reduced emissions. Balfour Beatty highlights the ease and effectiveness of retrofitting existing vehicles with hydrogen technology, emphasizing the significant carbon savings achieved. Moreover, the vehicles can seamlessly switch to diesel if hydrogen is unavailable, mitigating risks associated with hydrogen supply disruptions. However, the project faced challenges related to the cost of retrofits and the current limited availability of hydrogen refuellers and hydrogen gas. The company is optimistic about the future landscape, expecting enhancements in the hydrogen supply in Scotland by 2026, which will improve accessibility. Balfour Beatty plans to conduct quarterly 'lessons learned' sessions and open its M77 depot for visits starting in September. Looking ahead, the company aims to further test the efficiency of the spreaders during the winter maintenance cycle and continue analyzing data from the IPV to enhance fuel optimization. Additionally, they intend to utilize funding to support their supply chain partners in transitioning to hydrogen by sharing risk assessments, cost information, and management plans. To ensure the economic sustainability of this transition, Balfour Beatty will engage with the industry, establish new partnerships, and advocate for competitive green hydrogen fuel rates.