Kier Energy Trial Gives Positive Results

Kier has shared preliminary results from an ongoing one-year study investigating the feasibility of using energy generated from solar panels and backup hydrogen fuel cells in the construction industry. The results so far are more than impressive, though they are not yet final. So what makes this new power system special, and how could it impact the building sector?

The main source: Kier energy trial bears fruit

The Current Situation with This Project

The project is currently in a testing phase, which will continue for at least another six months.
The company has already produced interim results that show very promising data.
From January to April 2025, 16,047 kWh of electricity were used.

6,588 kWh came from solar energy.
9,171 kWh were generated via green hydrogen.
287 kWh were supplied by backup batteries.

For comparison: using diesel generators during the same period would have required 20,000 liters of fuel, leading to 53,000 kg of carbon emissions.

How Will Kier Solar Power Supply Influence the Building Industry?

The implementation of new solar panels will bring numerous positive impacts to the construction industry. First, it will benefit the environment and help the government meet its Net Zero target. Second, using self-generated energy could significantly reduce construction costs. Third, when using their own power systems, construction companies gain more independence and operational flexibility.

Jo Driffield, senior engineer in the Environment Agency’s innovation team, said:

“This early trial is critical to help understand the technology. Through our innovation fund, we are supporting Kier’s trial at the Bridgwater tidal barrier scheme, which involves innovative pairing of solar with a hydrogen fuel cell backup at this scale of deployment. This trial is a significant step forward in helping the Environment Agency achieve its net-zero goals and a sustainable future. Conducting trials like this will demonstrate the demand for hydrogen, especially green hydrogen, which is needed to help support the investment into the production and supply to the construction industry and other uses.”

Fencyx, as one of the leaders in the UK building industry, welcomes this kind of innovation.

If used properly, it can significantly enhance the performance of the UK construction sector.