Launch of Pilot Project Showcases Hydrogen-Powered Construction Equipment
In the presence of Federal Minister Leonore Gewessler, STRABAG, in collaboration with partners Liebherr and Energie Steiermark, has launched a groundbreaking pilot project at the Gratkorn quarry. This initiative marks the first practical use of a hydrogen-powered wheel loader, replacing conventional diesel with green hydrogen. The new powertrain technology has the potential to save up to 37,500 liters of diesel or reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 100 tonnes annually.
The construction industry contributes to 38% of global emissions, and STRABAG recognizes its responsibility to reduce its carbon footprint across the entire value chain. STRABAG CEO Klemens Haselsteiner emphasized the company’s goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2040 and noted that reducing emissions in construction machinery is critical to reaching this goal. “We are proud to work alongside Liebherr and Energie Steiermark, whose expertise is essential in developing and testing innovative powertrain solutions. Together, we are exploring hydrogen’s potential to revolutionize construction equipment,” said Haselsteiner.
Marco Xaver Bornschlegl, head of STRABAG’s Innovation & Digitalization division, added, “Fuel consumption is the largest contributor to our carbon emissions. Finding new low-emission fuel solutions, like this hydrogen engine, is key to effectively cutting our carbon footprint.” Insights from the pilot project will help inform further innovations across the company.
Ceremonial Launch Attended by Federal Minister Gewessler
Federal Minister for Climate Action and Environment Leonore Gewessler was on-site for the project’s launch, where she witnessed the hydrogen-powered wheel loader in action. Minister Gewessler praised the innovation, emphasizing its importance in securing Austria’s energy future. “Green hydrogen is crucial for transitioning industries to climate-friendly production. Projects like this showcase how innovation in hard-to-electrify sectors like construction can drive job creation and reduce dependency on fossil fuels,” she remarked.
Liebherr’s Hydrogen-Powered Wheel Loader
The hydrogen-powered wheel loader, developed by STRABAG’s trusted partner Liebherr, is at the heart of the project. Liebherr recently unveiled this innovative vehicle, designed to operate without CO2 emissions, a solution for large machinery that requires high energy input. “Hydrogen engines allow us to power large, energy-intensive vehicles with zero emissions,” said Herbert Pfab, Technical Managing Director at Liebherr-Werk Bischofshofen GmbH. Manufactured at Liebherr’s production facility in Bulle, Switzerland, these engines not only eliminate CO2 emissions but also meet stringent nitrogen oxide standards.
The wheel loader will undergo a multi-year testing phase at STRABAG’s Kanzelsteinsteinbruch quarry in Gratkorn, where the necessary infrastructure has been set up to support the trial.
Energie Steiermark’s Role in Green Hydrogen Supply
A key challenge in the project was securing a consistent supply of green hydrogen. Energie Steiermark, with its expertise in hydrogen technologies, stepped in to provide the necessary refueling infrastructure for the quarry. “Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in the energy transition, and we are thrilled to collaborate on this pioneering project with STRABAG and Liebherr,” said Martin Graf, a member of Energie Steiermark’s board. Their green hydrogen production plant in Gabersdorf will supply the project, further advancing Styria’s reputation as a leader in sustainable innovation.
STRABAG’s Comprehensive Sustainability Strategy
The hydrogen-powered wheel loader is just one part of STRABAG’s broader strategy to decarbonize its operations. At its Saalfelden quarry, for instance, the company is replacing diesel-powered machinery with electric conveyor belts. One such belt generates its own electricity through the weight of transported materials, using that energy to drive a generator.
In Germany, STRABAG is planning to deploy battery-operated self-driving electric tippers, the first of their kind, at its Eigenrieden quarry. Additionally, STRABAG has restored a disused section of the Gaaden quarry into a thriving biotope, providing a new habitat for various bird and insect species.
This comprehensive approach underscores STRABAG’s commitment to sustainable building materials and operations, with innovations in green technology playing a central role.
