United adds hydrogen gen sets

United Rentals is adding a range of hydrogen zero emissions EODev generators from Generac - a distribution partner for EODev - to its North American rental fleet.

The company confirmed it expects to deploy the generators during the fourth quarter of 2022 and in 2023.

United said via a media statement that by adding hydrogen generators in the coming months, it will be able to offer customers “a zero-emissions power solution to charge electric vehicles and tools, and other equipment, advancing worksite electrification strategies.”

United is adding hydrogen powered zero emissions EODev generators from Generac.

“The EODev GEH2 fuel cell electro-hydrogen generators bring companies the energy they need, without emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NOx) or other particulate matter (PM).”

They have a compact footprint of about 4 feet (1.2 metres) by 11 feet (3.4 metres), and deliver instant power up to 110 kVA (88 kW).

“They are equipped with the latest hydrogen fuel cells, and provide exceptional durability and reliability. In addition to the sustainability benefits, they also run much quieter than traditional generators,” United said. 

The generators join units including emissions-free aerial lifts, trucks, vans, compact excavators, e-dumpsters and battery systems in the United Rentals portfolio of environmentally friendly rental equipment.

David Scott, Senior Vice President of Specialty Operations, United Rentals, said; “By providing a zero-emissions power solution, United Rentals continues to demonstrate leadership in helping worksites expand electrification in construction and industrial rental sectors.

“We can assist companies as they work to close the sustainability loop by providing the power they need without generating harmful emissions to charge electric vehicles and equipment, and more.”

Applications for GEH2 generators include construction worksites; confined environments such as tunnels, mines and enclosed spaces; entertainment venues including concerts; sports events; and many other markets where emission free power is required.

United Rentals has set a goal of reducing the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of its business by 35 percent by 2030, from 2018. 

The company recently confirmed in its 2021 Corporate Responsibility Report that it had achieved a 9% reduction in the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions from direct operations, in a move towards that goal.