CPA Bulletin

30 CPA Bulletin > November 2022 www.cpa.uk.net NEWS FROMCPA MEMBERS: 1 News from CPA Members To submit news for consideration for future issues of the CPA Bulletin, please email lisa @ lisacollinscommunications.co.uk Wraps Come off Hydrogen Refueller JCB has unveiled a world’s first for the industry - a mobile hydrogen refueller which provides a quick and easy way for customers to refuel their machines on site. The company is investing £100 million in a project to produce super- efficient hydrogen engines and has already showcased working prototypes of a backhoe loader and Loadall telescopic handler powered by hydrogen. Around 97 per cent of construction machines have fuel delivered to themwhile working on site. This means customers are already used to a transportable fuel, allowing refuelling to take place in a matter of minutes. JCB Chairman Lord Bamford, who is leading JCB’s hydrogen project, said: “Since we became the first construction equipment company to unveil machines powered by hydrogen, many have asked how they can be refuelled. “We have an answer with our newmobile hydrogen refuelling system, which allows hydrogen to be taken from on-site tube trailers and distributed to machines by our refueller as they work on the job site. This is no different to today when diesel is taken in bowsers to refuel machines. “Fossil fuels are not the future and hydrogen is the practical solution to powering our machines in the decades to come. Our British engineers are doing a fantastic job in developing this technology and there are many more exciting developments to come.” A team of 100 engineers is working on the project. The first hydrogen powered machine to be unveiled was a JCB backhoe loader followed, a year ago, by a Loadall telescopic handler. The technology went on to be shown in the Green Zone at COP26 in Glasgow as world leaders debated measures to drastically reduce greenhouse emissions. JPS Acquired by UK Hire Group JPS has been acquired by UK Hire Group as part of new plans for the company which will see it continue to grow and implement new innovative products under its two divisions JPS Group Services and JPS Platforms. Founded in 2014, JPS works across London and the South East to deliver equipment hire solutions, environmental services and working at height training including IPAF and PASMA courses. It has also recently been named one of the top 30 powered access companies in the UK by Cranes and Access as part of its annual survey. Adam Hems, Chief Executive of UK Hire Group, says: “Our plan is to maintain the strong customer service that has enabled the impressive growth to date, whilst progressing with a strong technical focus. New innovative products will be introduced soon in order to offer products and services that make the jobs of our customers safer, more productive and more efficient. “We also want to continue growing our team. The people within JPS are who make the company what it is today. We want to maintain our strong culture but also continue to attract the best people. We are currently in the process of creating training programmes for those at every level and every role to ensure that progression and career opportunities are front and centre. “The acquisition has presented a brand new and exciting opportunity for JPS as it continues to solidify its place as the leading plant and tool hire company within the UK.”