Hydrogen integration for materials and construction operations

Hydrogen can be introduced into high-temperature industrial processes through blending or direct combustion, depending on plant design and decarbonisation goals. In glass and cement production, hydrogen can partially or fully replace fossil fuels used for process heat, helping reduce combustion-related emissions.

Integration typically begins with a technical assessment of burner systems, fuel delivery infrastructure and heat requirements. Hydrogen systems can be staged to allow gradual transition, supporting emissions reduction targets while maintaining production stability and product quality.

In glass manufacturing, hydrogen is also used in the manufacturing process of float glass.  In this application, the hydrogen is used as a technical gas to create an oxygen-free environment. This environment is essential to prevent the oxidation of the molten tin bath upon which the glass floats, ensuring high-quality, defect-free glass.

Yes. Hydrogen-powered equipment and generators operate with significantly lower emissions and reduced noise compared to diesel alternatives. This makes them well suited to urban construction zones where air quality regulations, council approvals, and community expectations are increasingly stringent.

Hydrogen solutions can power telehandlers, lighting towers, excavators, temporary site offices, and auxiliary generators without the exhaust fumes or high decibel output associated with diesel gensets. This supports safer work environments, smoother project approvals and improved stakeholder relations in environmentally sensitive locations.

Hydrogen can support both direct (Scope 1) and value chain (Scope 3) emissions strategies. Replacing fossil fuels in process heat, equipment and site power reduces operational emissions. Extending hydrogen into logistics and freight helps lower emissions associated with material transport and project delivery.

For companies supplying major infrastructure or commercial developments, demonstrating low-carbon energy use can strengthen contract competitiveness and support reporting obligations. Hydrogen integration also aligns with broader decarbonisation commitments increasingly required by investors, developers and government clients.

Infrastructure requirements can depend on the application, scale and existing energy systems. Typical components include hydrogen production, storage and fuel delivery systems, along with any required modifications to burners, generators or mobile equipment.

A phased approach allows hydrogen systems to operate alongside existing fuel sources during transition. Site assessments consider layout, safety compliance, energy demand and grid or renewable integration. With proper planning, integration can be achieved with minimal disruption to ongoing construction or manufacturing activities.

Large construction projects often rely on stable fuel supply for manufacturing, transport, and site operations. Disruptions in diesel availability or price volatility can affect timelines and cost certainty.

On-site hydrogen production reduces reliance on transported fossil fuels and external suppliers. Generating energy locally strengthens planning confidence and protects against supply interruptions. For multi-year infrastructure projects, this can improve cost predictability and reduce exposure to external energy market fluctuations.

Yes. Hydrogen systems are modular and can be deployed at a single plant, temporary construction site, or logistics hub, then expanded or replicated across additional locations as demand grows.

This flexibility allows businesses to pilot hydrogen at one facility before rolling it out across a broader portfolio. As technology adoption increases and renewable integration expands, systems can evolve to support new plants, mobile project sites and regional industry clusters.