Research has been conducted into alternatives to diesel fuel, including portable solar power, hydrogen and Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The considerations include the performance of fully electric and hybrid machinery in varying weather and terrain, along with how contracting teams interact with them. The challenge with EV plant equipment is usually the practicality of accessing suitable electric power throughout the construction process when grid supplied electricity is not available.

United Powered Access (UPA), one of the UK’s leading plant hire businesses for the construction sector, and CA Roofing Services, one of the UK’s largest metal roofing and cladding contractors, have collaborated on a sustainability business strategy, supporting their customers and clients on a critical and fundamental mission to reduce carbon emissions.

By adopting HVO for construction plant as of July 2024, an estimated reduction of approximately 80% in the emissions associated with on-site plant equipment may be possible, in comparison to traditional diesel fuel. This can have a significant impact on reducing customers’ overall operational carbon footprint, and the embodied carbon of the buildings constructed.

A key goal for both UPA and CA Roofing Services is to be inclusive of all employees, upskilling their teams in sustainability with in-depth training; driving cultural change across the business. Together they are striving for continuous improvement in quality for all products and services, inclusive of sustainability.