The move is part of F1’s efforts towards becoming net zero by 2030. A low-carbon system will be used to power all garages and motorhomes belonging to F1, F1 teams and the FIA, as well as the pit wall, timing room and the Formula 1 Event Technical Centre, where the at-track broadcast operations are based.

The energy system will produce enough energy to meet peak and continuous demand over the race weekend, and will be powered by sources such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel and 600 square-metres of solar panels. 

Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1, said: “Formula 1’s approach to driving innovation that creates meaningful impact and influence on the wider world goes beyond hybrid engines and sustainable fuels. 

“This approach drives everything we do including how we run our own operations, and the trial in Austria is the latest example of this, demonstrating the commitment from Formula 1 and key stakeholders to develop new ways of working. Using the latest technology and innovations, we’re continuing to explore new opportunities to deliver events in a more sustainable way to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Not only will the pilot reduce carbon emissions, but it also makes it easier and more reliable to power the event by removing the need for teams to provide their own generators. The trial will allow Formula 1 to collect and analyse data that could lead to a more streamlined system for future events.

Ian Stone, Logistics Director, Formula 1, added: “This energy trial is the latest push for more sustainable operations, which feeds into our overall goal of being Net Zero by 2030 and shows the desire across the paddock from key stakeholders, who have bought into the ambition and understanding of why it is important too. There’s not only the obvious benefit of reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, but logistically it offers us the opportunity to create a more streamlined approach to powering Grand Prix events.”

Image: sebastiaan stam on Unsplash