![Preparation work inside the combined heat and power unit for the demo at Kirkwall Airport [Photo: Colin Keldie – EMEC]](https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/assets/news_articles/2025/10/1761720845_preparation-work-inside-the-combined-heat-and-power-unit-for-the-demo-at-kirkwall-airport--colin-keldie---emec-.jpg)
A unique hydrogen combustion engine generation trial, led by means of the Ecu Marine Power Centre (EMEC), has been put in at Kirkwall Airport in Orkney.
It’s the first time hydrogen has been used to fulfill each the ability and warmth calls for of a business airport in the United Kingdom.
Manufactured by means of German company 2G Power, the machine is described as the primary 100% hydrogen mixed warmth and tool (CHP) unit of its variety to be put in in the United Kingdom. It was once located airside at Kirkwall Airport and paired with the airport’s present heating machine to provide warmth to the primary terminal construction and tool throughout all of the website.
Funded by means of the Scottish govt by the use of Highlands & Islands Undertaking and supported by means of paintings during the Sustainable Aviation Take a look at Setting (SATE) and Rural Power Hubs tasks, the trial introduced in combination representatives from EMEC and 2G, with strengthen from Highlands & Islands Airports Restricted (HIAL), which operates Kirkwall Airport.
The CHP machine used inexperienced hydrogen, equipped by means of EMEC, to generate electrical energy and get well spinoff warmth.
Running with airport floor personnel, further electric rather a lot have been activated to check the machine, permitting the CHP to provide a gentle output. Device efficiency and integration have been monitored with the CHP machine running at about 60% capability. All through the trial, the CHP powered the airport terminal and runway lights, and met the heating call for with out the desire for the airport’s boilers to run.
EMEC operations and upkeep supervisor Leonore Van Velzen stated: “This venture was once to start with pushed by means of an calories intake find out about delivered by means of EMEC during the ReFLEX Orkney venture, which recognized key alternatives to decarbonise airport operations.
“Orkney is definitely established as a hub for calories innovation, the place new applied sciences and their roles in turning in a long run blank calories machine are demonstrated.
“This trial is a brilliant instance of collaboration in motion, combining EMEC’s hydrogen experience, the technical functions of 2G, and the operational perception of HIAL’s airport staff, in particular the airport fireplace carrier. Seeing hydrogen deployed in a are living airport surroundings is a vital step ahead in exploring sensible decarbonisation answers, and we’re proud to have supported the protected supply of this first-of-its-kind demonstration.”
2G managing director Mark Holtmann, stated: “Demonstrating how hydrogen can reliably ship each energy and warmth in one of these essential infrastructure surroundings is crucial step in opposition to decarbonising energy-intensive operations. This venture showcases what’s conceivable when innovation and collaboration come in combination, and we’re proud to look 2G’s generation contributing to Scotland’s management within the transition to internet 0 aviation.”
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