Cleaner air and a greener future: Think Hire’s solutions for Carnell’s EcoSite

Date: 26/09/24

Cleaner air and a greener future: Think Hire’s solutions for Carnell’s EcoSite.

As we work toward a sustainable future, reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality are critical priorities in the construction and highway sectors. At Think Hire, we're proud to play a leading role in this mission, providing innovative solutions that make a real difference in both environmental impact and the well-being of workers on-site.

In partnership with Carnell as part of their EcoSite initiative, we’ve successfully deployed Solartainer Versatile, Sitegrid X45 hybrid battery and Solar Skyframe units across several key highway compound setups in 2023, including high-profile sites like the M69 Ansty and M1 J28 Pinxton Interchange.

The Think Energy Panorama remote monitoring system supported all setups and provided live data on energy usage, fuel consumption, and emissions.

By replacing traditional diesel generators with our off-grid, renewable energy units, we’ve helped Carnell dramatically reduce their carbon footprint, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter emissions. Not only are these solutions eco-friendly, but they also deliver significant fuel savings, reducing overall costs even when considering the hire price of Solartainers.

Tangible Reductions in Harmful Emissions

Across all key sites, we achieved impressive reductions in both carbon emissions and harmful pollutants, along with significant operational cost savings. The project’s key statistics are as follows:

• 8 sites, with The A38 Fradley Compound being one of the largest installations and in situ for approximately 9 months.
• 169 tonnes of CO2e saved – the equivalent of filling 39 hot air balloons or 17 million footballs.
• £98,723 in fuel cost savings.
• 65,815 litres of fuel saved, representing a staggering 63% reduction.
• £60,923 in overall savings.
• NOx emissions cut by 61%
• Particulate matter reduced by 63%, from 19 units to 7, resulting in a reduction of 12 quintillion particulates.

Award-winning project

This remarkable project didn’t go unnoticed. Carnell’s EcoSite initiative was selected as a winner at the International Green Apple Environment Awards 2024.

By powering the EcoSite initiative with Think Hire’s off-grid power solutions, Carnell achieved incredible sustainability results across eight sites. Together, we’re not just talking about change – we’re actively driving it by significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving site operations.

Think Hire is truly honoured to have contributed to this outstanding achievement.

Better Air Quality, Healthier Worksites

These emission reductions aren’t just about numbers—they directly impact the health of workers and nearby communities. According to the Royal College of Physicians, air pollution contributes to around 40,000 early deaths each year in the UK. Diesel engines are known to produce high levels of NOx and particulates, which can trigger asthma, increase respiratory risks, and even lead to heart attacks or strokes in vulnerable individuals.

By significantly cutting particulate matter and NOx emissions, Carnell’s EcoSite solutions are not only protecting the environment but also enhancing the health and safety of workers who spend long hours near generators.

A Commitment to Collaboration

Our journey towards decarbonisation is strengthened by our collaborative approach. Through partnerships like the Midlands Collaborative Community’s Net Zero Working Group, we share best practices and encourage other companies to adopt sustainable technologies. Following Think Hire’s demonstration at the A38 Fradley compound, delivery partners such as Chevron have implemented similar solutions, achieving significant CO2 savings on their own projects.

Building a Legacy of Sustainability

The environmental benefits of Carnell’s EcoSite solutions extend far beyond carbon reduction. By cutting harmful pollutants like NOx and particulates, we’re not only helping to protect the planet but also safeguarding the health of the people who live and work near our sites. With the support of forward-thinking partners like Carnell, we continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable construction and infrastructure projects.

As the industry moves toward net zero, Think Hire’s renewable off-grid power solutions will continue to play a vital role in creating cleaner, greener worksites across the UK.

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