STRABAG and Liebherr test Hydrogen-Powered Wheel Loader
In a ground-breaking move towards sustainable construction, STRABAG, in collaboration with Liebherr and Energie Steiermark, has launched a pilot project to test a hydrogen-powered wheel loader at the Gratkorn quarry in Styria, Austria.
This innovative initiative, officially kicked off in the presence of Federal Minister Leonore Gewessler, aims to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as a clean alternative to conventional diesel in heavy construction machinery.
Emission-Free Construction
The construction sector is a major contributor to global emissions, accounting for 38% of CO2 output worldwide. STRABAG, a leading player in the industry, recognises its responsibility to reduce its carbon footprint. By embracing hydrogen-powered technology, the company hopes to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future.
STRABAG CEO Klemens Haselsteiner highlighted the company’s commitment: “We want to become climate neutral by 2040. And we will only achieve this goal with a resolute commitment to lower carbon emissions across the board – in the operation of our construction machinery, for example. We are delighted to have Liebherr and Energie Steiermark at our side, two partners whose expertise is helping us to develop and test innovative powertrain solutions.”
The hydrogen-powered wheel loader is a critical component of this vision. With the potential to save up to 37,500 litres of diesel and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 100 tonnes per year, the project is not just about testing a new engine—it’s about setting a new standard for the construction industry.
A Game-Changer for Heavy Machinery
For the first time, green hydrogen is being used to replace diesel in a large wheel loader, marking a significant step forward in alternative powertrain technologies. During the project launch, Minister Gewessler expressed her enthusiasm: “Green hydrogen is an indispensable part of our energy future. It enables parts of industry to switch to climate-friendly production, which secures and creates jobs. As an important and valuable energy source, it helps replace fossil natural gas, especially in the hard-to-electrify mobility and construction sectors.”
The hydrogen used in the project is produced by Energie Steiermark, which operates a green hydrogen plant in Gabersdorf. This facility ensures a reliable and sustainable supply to the quarry, supporting the zero-emission operation of the machinery. Martin Graf, a member of Energie Steiermark’s board, emphasised the importance of the collaboration: “Hydrogen is a key component of the energy transition. Realising this pioneering project together with STRABAG and Liebherr not only strengthens our position as a local sustainability partner, but also helps to put Styria on the map.”
A New Era of Construction Equipment
At the heart of the project is Liebherr’s cutting-edge hydrogen engine, which powers the wheel loader under real working conditions. Liebherr’s technical managing director, Herbert Pfab, explained the significance of the technology: “Hydrogen engines make it possible to also operate large vehicles that are difficult to electrify due to their high energy requirements at completely zero-carbon conditions.”
The engines, produced at Liebherr’s facility in Bulle, Switzerland, are specifically designed to meet zero-emission standards for both CO2 and nitrogen oxides. This means that not only are the machines environmentally friendly, but they also comply with the stringent emission limits that are currently being developed for heavy-duty vehicles.
The wheel loader will be put through its paces over a multi-year trial period at STRABAG’s Kanzelsteinsteinbruch quarry in Gratkorn. The aim is to gather valuable data on the performance and operational efficiency of the hydrogen engine, which could then be used to inform future applications in the construction sector.
STRABAG’s Broader Commitment to Sustainable Quarries
The introduction of hydrogen-powered machinery is just one part of STRABAG’s holistic approach to sustainable quarry operations. The company is actively exploring other green initiatives, such as replacing diesel-powered mobile machines with electric conveyor belts in Saalfelden. One such conveyor belt even generates electricity from the weight of the transported stones, highlighting the innovative ways in which STRABAG is reducing emissions.
In Germany, STRABAG is also planning to deploy self-driving, battery-operated electric tippers at its Eigenrieden quarry, which would be the first of their kind in the country. These measures demonstrate STRABAG’s broader commitment to cutting carbon emissions across its operations, from material sourcing to machine usage.
Additionally, STRABAG has repurposed a disused section of the Gaaden quarry into a vibrant biotope, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship. By rewilding the area, the company has created a haven for birds, insects, and other wildlife, proving that sustainable practices can go hand in hand with industrial operations.
A Promising Outlook for Hydrogen in Construction
The pilot project at Gratkorn quarry is a clear indication that hydrogen-powered machinery could revolutionise the construction sector. As STRABAG, Liebherr, and Energie Steiermark continue to test and refine this technology, the potential to expand its use across other applications grows ever more promising.
This collaborative effort not only positions Austria at the forefront of sustainable construction but also sets a powerful example for the global industry. By investing in innovative, low-emission solutions, the construction sector can take meaningful steps towards a greener, more sustainable future.
