October 11, 2024
Haulotte and Equans Are Testing Decarbonization of Construction Sites Under Real-World Conditions
The first construction project in France using a machine powered by green hydrogen is underway in Saint-Cyr-l’École. A carbon-free Haulotte aerial work platform is being used to install exterior insulation on a public housing building.
In May 2022, Haulotte and the Equans France hydrogen team entered into an agreement to conduct real-world testing of an all-terrain* scissor lift, the HS18 E, from the PULSEO* line. This aerial work platform is equipped with a removable range extender** powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which recharges the batteries.
While electric machines are already available, hydrogen offers the advantage of enabling the decarbonization of remote job sites lacking electrical infrastructure, as well as increasing operating range and allowing for rapid recharging.
This on-site trial is a first in France and required certification of all equipment and the charging station.
This real-world trial is being conducted with the support of Bouygues Construction Matériel at a construction site managed by Bouygues Bâtiment Habitat Social and equipped with a hydrogen refueling station.
This partnership between Haulotte and Equans in France paves the way for an accelerated energy transition on construction sites, increasing equipment autonomy and productivity.
This fast-charging system also eliminates the need for long charging times and helps mitigate the risk of equipment theft overnight.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the use of hydrogen also provides greater comfort for operators and people near the construction site, as pollutant and noise emissions are significantly reduced—the fuel cell emits only water vapor.
