Chancellor Rachel Reeves Visits JCB to See Progress on £100 Million Hydrogen Investment
On June 26th, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves visited JCB’s global HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire, to receive an in-depth update on the £100 million investment into hydrogen engine technology and hydrogen-powered construction equipment.
This significant investment is being driven by a dedicated team of over 100 engineers at JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, where the development of a cutting-edge hydrogen combustion engine is well underway.
The Chancellor, who previously toured the Foston engine facility in September 2022, had the opportunity during that visit to witness a live demonstration of a prototype digger powered by a hydrogen combustion engine. She also experienced firsthand how easy it was to fill the machine with hydrogen.
During her most recent visit, JCB Chairman Lord Anthony Bamford showcased the latest advancements in hydrogen refuelling technology. The Chancellor participated in a demonstration by refuelling a pre-production hydrogen backhoe loader using a towable mobile hydrogen refueller.
Rachel Reeves commented:
“It was fantastic to see JCB’s zero emission machinery yesterday in Staffordshire. JCB are making quick progress in ensuring hydrogen plays a vital role in decarbonising the construction industry, delivering the jobs of the future and supporting this government’s primary mission of growing the economy to put more money in people’s pockets.”
Lord Bamford added:
“It was a pleasure to show the Chancellor the great progress that British engineers are making in hydrogen engine technology and the associated refuelling technology. What’s needed now is more investment in green hydrogen production so that JCB’s hydrogen-powered equipment can be brought to market quickly and at scale.”
This visit follows a major milestone for JCB, as the company recently secured full EU type-approval for its hydrogen engine for use in non-road mobile machinery. This approval allows JCB’s hydrogen engine to be sold and used in machines and third-party OEM equipment across all 27 EU member states, as well as in other territories that recognise EU type-approvals, including EEA and EFTA regions. Full GB type-approval has also been granted.
JCB’s pioneering work in hydrogen technology highlights its commitment to sustainable innovation and its leadership in the transition to zero-emission construction solutions.
View sustainability work being carried out directly here at TC Harrison JCB.