News article
Australian Grand Prix organisers drive for change with zero-emission tech
This weekend’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne will see General Admission fan areas powered by zero-emission technology.
The Australian Grand Prix Corporation, organisers of the Australian Grand Prix, first implemented the use of EODev GEH2 hydrogen-fuelled generators to power certain areas last year.
These generators offer an alternative to diesel generators, emitting only water and vapour. Last year, they saved approximately two tonnes of CO2 from being released over the four-day event.
For 2024’s race weekend, organisers have doubled the number of hydrogen generators, and have added a hybrid generator and two mass battery storage units. Two ovals within Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit will be powered using the EODev GEH2 hydrogen-fuelled generators from Blue Diamond Machinery and Toyota Australia.
“In 2023 we were proudly the first major event in Australia to use hydrogen cell generators operationally. Knowing this saved two tonnes of CO2 emissions gives us assurance we’ll be delivering an even greater reduction in 2024 as we expand the technology further across the site,” said Australian Grand Prix Corporation Sustainability Manager, Sarah Lowe.
“The renewable energy transition at events is a key focus for Formula 1 as we continue towards our Net Zero by 2030 target."
The move supports climate initiatives set out by both Formula 1 and the state government.
Additionally, the Albert Park site will utilise 100% Accredited Green Power from renewable sources such as hydro, wind, solar and waste. A 5% FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) Biodiesel blend will be used to fuel the remaining generators throughout the event, while super-screens and patron thoroughfare at Gate 9 will be powered by hybrid energy generation, battery storage and solar light towers.
“The renewable energy transition at events is a key focus for Formula 1 as we continue towards our Net Zero by 2030 target. It is fantastic to see the team at the Australian Grand Prix taking action across the race weekend and more broadly seeing our promoters embrace renewable energy across their operations,” added Ellen Jones, Formula 1’s Head of Environment, Social and Governance.
Image: Alban Villain