Formula 1 has taken a significant leap toward its environmental goals by partnering with Aggreko as the Official Temporary Power Solutions Provider for European races.
This seven-year partnership represents a bold step in F1’s journey to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. By focusing on sustainable power for Formula 1 European races, the collaboration highlights how major sporting events can embrace green technology without compromising performance or reliability.
How Aggreko’s Green Solutions Are Transforming F1 Events
The motorsport world is witnessing a remarkable transformation as Sustainable Power for Formula 1 European Races becomes a reality through innovative technology.
Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades solutions have already demonstrated impressive results during the 2024 season. Most notably, at the Austrian Grand Prix, carbon emissions were slashed by over 90% compared to 2022 figures.
This dramatic reduction illustrates the potential of alternative energy solutions in high-demand environments.
The comprehensive power system incorporates several cutting-edge technologies:
- Solar PV hybrid systems
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
- Stage V generators running on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)
- Centralized power distribution networks
These technologies work together to power not only the bustling paddock area but also F1’s International Broadcast Compound, which requires substantial energy to bring the racing action to viewers worldwide.
Proven Success Through Testing and Implementation
The partnership between Aggreko and Formula 1 didn’t materialize overnight. Initially, the collaboration began as a pilot project at the 2023 Austrian Grand Prix.
Following its success, engineers conducted further testing at the Red Bull Ring and the 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix. The consistent emission reductions achieved during these events convinced F1 management to implement this centralized power system across all European Grand Prix starting in 2025.
This systematic approach eliminates the previous inefficient practice where individual teams and stakeholders brought their generators.
Instead, Aggreko’s solution provides sufficient power for all operational areas throughout race weekends while significantly reducing the environmental impact.
Technical Innovations Driving Sustainability
Aggreko has made substantial investments in equipment and services to deliver more sustainable power options. Their new fleet includes:
- Stage V generators ranging from 30 kVA to 1200 kVA
- Advanced hybrid battery systems
- HVO is a drop-in fuel that reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 90%
- Very low temperature chillers using CO₂ as an ultra-low Global Warming Potential refrigerant
Robert Wells, Europe President and Head of Events at Aggreko, emphasized the alignment of values between the companies: “Our partnership with Formula 1 is built on the strength of our shared vision and values.
By improving performance in innovation, sustainability, and technology through our work powering some of the sport’s supporting infrastructure, we are showcasing how bespoke solutions using our latest Greener Upgrades technologies can help meet ESG goals in a setting that is the ultimate test of performance.”
Formula 1’s Broader Sustainability Commitment
The collaboration with Aggreko forms just one component of Formula 1’s comprehensive sustainability strategy. F1 has publicly committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, focusing on three key areas:
Greener Energy Sources
More than 75% of race promoters now use green power, demonstrating the sport’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Furthermore, the implementation of Sustainable Power for Formula 1 European Races through Aggreko’s solutions represents a major advancement in this area.
Sustainable Fuels Development
F1 is working diligently toward having all cars on the grid powered by 100% sustainable fuel by 2026. This pioneering “drop-in” fuel technology isn’t just beneficial for racing—it’s being developed to work with most road cars worldwide, potentially creating a much broader positive impact.
Improved Logistics
The sport has already made significant strides in reducing emissions from transportation. By using biofuel-powered trucks and increasing reliance on sea freight instead of air transportation, F1 has substantially decreased its carbon footprint from logistics operations.
Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1, highlighted the importance of these initiatives: “The delivery of our Net Zero by 2030 commitment is driven by new technologies and new ways of working.
With Aggreko’s support, Formula 1 is taking another step to reduce emissions across the Paddock. The low-carbon power solutions will be in action across our European events this year and will further support our drive to be Net Zero by 2030.”
Broader Applications Beyond Racing
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of F1’s sustainability push is its potential to drive innovation that benefits society at large. The technologies being developed and implemented for Sustainable Power for Formula 1 European Races have applications far beyond motorsport.
These advancements can potentially transform how large events are powered, how logistics operations are conducted, and even how everyday vehicles are fueled.
Aggreko’s work in Formula 1 mirrors its efforts in Formula E, where it aims to reduce emissions by 45% across Scopes 1, 2, and 3 by 2030. This consistent approach across different racing series demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable power solutions.
Expert Editorial Comment
As this partnership unfolds over the next seven years, we can expect to see continual improvements and innovations in sustainable power delivery.
The successful implementation across European races may eventually lead to similar solutions at F1 events worldwide.
Moreover, the data collected and lessons learned from powering such high-profile, energy-intensive events will undoubtedly lead to refinements that make renewable energy more viable for other applications.
