Sky has developed a hydrogen and sodium battery-based mobile power system that it claims can replace diesel generators on film and TV sets, in a move designed to cut on-set emissions and noise.
The hybrid unit, built in-house by Sky engineers and production staff, combines a green hydrogen fuel cell with sodium batteries to deliver a zero-emission, grid-independent power source for studio and location work. The system is pitched as a like-for-like substitute for traditional gensets – capable of handling the same production loads but producing only water and heat as by-products, with the water recirculated into the fuel cell to improve efficiency. The sodium batteries avoid precious or toxic minerals and are said to be safer and more recyclable than lithium-based alternatives.
Sky says the solution can run on or off the mains, easing pressure on local power infrastructure and supporting both large studio shoots and remote outside broadcasts. With research from Bafta’s albert initiative indicating that around 15% of emissions from tentpole productions come from mobile power – and 50% from fossil fuel use overall – the broadcaster argues the new unit has the potential to significantly shrink productions’ carbon footprints while improving air quality and reducing noise for crews and nearby communities.
“We’re so proud to announce this clean-energy power unit – the first of its kind, capable of the biggest production challenges,” said David Rhodes, Executive Chairman of Sky News. “Now, we’re filling a real gap for smarter, quieter and more sustainable production solutions.” Fiona Ball, Sky’s Group Director for Bigger Picture and Sustainability, described the project as “a practical solution that supports our journey to a low-carbon world and shows what’s possible when we embed sustainability into everything we do.”
Live trials of the prototype are now under way at Sky Studios Elstree. While the system is still in testing and not yet commercially available, Sky plans to share results with the wider industry as it refines the technology and explores wider deployment across its production footprint.
