Field test in Port of Gothenburg showcases the future hydrogen-electric charging infrastructure for construction and transportation industries

Power Generation 3 minute read

Project partners Port of Gothenburg, Skanska, PowerCell Group, Hitachi Energy, Linde Gas, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Skagerak Energy conducted a joint field test to demonstrate the latest innovation in hydrogen-electric charging infrastructure, the hydrogen power unit HyFlexTM, developed in collaboration between PowerCell Group and Hitachi Energy.

 

HyFlex produces electricity from hydrogen, resulting in only water as a byproduct and no other emissions. The field test took place as part of the Port of Gothenburg project Arendal 2, to show that hydrogen and fuel cells can eliminate emissions from today’s diesel generators and provide a zero-emission alternative for the construction and transportation industries.

   

HyFlex

The hydrogen-electric power unit HyFlex, developed by Hitachi Energy in collaboration with PowerCell Group, combines a 100-kW fuel cell with batteries to generate off-grid power. It will produce zero emissions throughout its lifecycle. As the unit is mobile and can be used without access to a grid connection, it can support the Port of Gothenburg in various applications, at construction sites to charge construction machinery or in scaled-up versions provide power to cargo ships anchored in the port.

The hydrogen-electric power unit HyFlex was used to charge an electric excavator unit, Linde Gas was responsible for delivering green hydrogen to the construction site, ensuring that the entire process was renewable and environmentally friendly. During the demonstration, the electric excavator performed the same tasks as a conventional diesel-powered excavator, demonstrating the practical application of hydrogen-electric charging infrastructure in the construction industry

Learn more about HyFlex

Arendal 2

With our technical expertise, we supported the project onsite with engineers to secure a safe operation and managed permits from the Greater Gothenburg Fire and Rescue Service. The permitting process is crucial to ensure that safety standards and regulations are properly met, especially considering the new and innovative technology being used.

The goal of the Arendal 2 project is to create a new port terminal to meet future freight volumes. By equipping the new quays with shore power, the Port of Gothenburg will minimize emissions from ships docked at the quay, further enhancing the project’s sustainability profile.

Learn more about the Arendal 2 project

Port of Gothenburg

The Port of Gothenburg, the largest port in the Nordic region, has set ambitious goals to reduce its emissions by 70% by 2030. To achieve this goal, the port has taken the lead in implementing hydrogen as a key component of its energy transition. By introducing hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuels, the Port of Gothenburg aims not only to reduce its emissions but also to promote sustainable transport solutions for the entire sector.

“Hydrogen plays a central role in our transition to a fossil-free future,” says Viktor Allgurén, Head of Innovation at the Port of Gothenburg. “By introducing hydrogen as an alternative to diesel for ships and machinery, we are creating a more sustainable and pleasant working environment while reducing our emissions.”

Learn more about the Port of Gothenburg

Skanska

At the same time, Skanska Gothenburg is actively working to promote sustainability within the construction industry. With a strong focus on reducing emissions and addressing the climate crisis, Skanska has committed to developing and using emission-free construction machinery and sustainable building solutions. Henrik Nilsson, a leading voice within Skanska, emphasizes the importance of balancing economic and environmental considerations in the implementation of construction projects.

“By focusing on emission-free machinery and collaborating with customers and suppliers who share our climate ambitions, we strive to create a more sustainable construction industry,” says Nilsson.

Learn more about Skanska