12th Nov 2021

Exploring energy alternatives to power our journey to net zero

Our ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on the environment is being demonstrated onsite with trials that help improve operation efficiency and reduce our CO2 emissions.

As part of our work to decarbonise our operations and deliver on our commitment to becoming Net Zero, our onsite teams are currently conducting a series of in-depth trials to explore more efficient and sustainable ways of providing power on our sites.

Together with global temporary power company Aggreko, we are taking part in trials using hydrogen power generation units and fuel cells integrated with battery storage to form a 45kVA hybrid solution.

The current trials will test and specify the right size, type and configuration of generator(s) appropriate for every model of tower crane in our fleet and every lift type. This will allow us to downsize our generators and, by incorporating battery or Fly Wheel technology, run our operation more efficiently and reduce our emissions.

With the use of red diesel on construction sites coming to an end in April next year, HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil) and battery technology is a tried and now tested solution as we transition away from traditional fuels and towards our goal of net zero carbon.

HVO is a paraffinic bio-based fuel that offers a significant reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions. Produced from plant-based oils and waste, it is one of the cleanest fuels on the market, eliminating up to 90% of net CO2 and significantly reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx), particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

For more information on alternative energy sources, visit the Aggreko website.

  • Sustainability

    We are committed to leaving a lasting positive legacy as a result of our actions. Considering our impact on the environment and society in all we do. Playing our role in addressing the climate emergency for a sustainable and prosperous future.

    Find out more

Latest news

  1. Celebrating the 125th anniversary of WHR's Mallaig extension

    01 Apr 2026

    The extension opened on 1st April 1901 and contains a series of major viaducts, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct

    Read more about
  2. Agratas celebrates milestone with topping out

    26 Mar 2026

    The team gathered to celebrate a topping out ceremony following steels completion in late January

    Read more about
  3. Attracting more military women into construction

    23 Mar 2026

    Last month, Rachael Smith, People and Culture Executive Director at Sir Robert McAlpine, and Katy Maloney, Trainee Quantity Surveyor, spoke at the Empowering You Conference with Forces Employment Charity.

    Read more about
View all news