ICL and AGM
In Q4 2024, AHT’s subsidiary Engine Carbon Clean (“ECC”) began cleaning operations for the Industrial Chemicals Limited (“ICL”) fleet at two locations, with the project extending into 2025. We also completed work for the Abels fleet owned by AGM Group and are exploring further opportunities within AGM and the wider chemicals and removals industries.
Valuable feedback from ICL and AGM has contributed to improvements not only in our cleaning processes but also in the testing component, an essential aspect of our service offering. Robust emissions reduction data is increasingly critical for these clients as they work towards Net Zero compliance and seek to satisfy mandatory ESG financial reporting standards.
RSK Group (1stInrail)
Q4 ended with successful tests with 1stInrail, part of the RSK Group, leading RSK to plan an ECC rollout to its network. This launch is in development and targeted for Q1 2025. RSK, one of Europe’s top environmental and engineering firms, includes 200 companies and is valued at over £2 billion.
Deutsche Bahn (“DB”) ESG MoU and Government Grant Win (Locomotive Testing)
Another notable achievement in Q4 was the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DB ESG. Our long-term work with Harry Needle Railroad Company (now owned by Swietelsky) helped secure the BCIMO grant and led to this MoU with DB ESG, part of Deutsche Bahn, marking a significant partnership for us.
Additionally, ECC, DB, and Freightliner were collectively awarded an Innovate UK Government Grant to advance the cleaning system designed for the Class 08 locomotive. The grant will support adaptation efforts for the more powerful Class 66 locomotive. This is the most widely used freight locomotive in the UK rail sector and is powered by EMD engines that are widespread across the US, potentially standing us in good stead for the US market. Testing is scheduled to commence next month.
The Innovate UK grant represents a vital step towards achieving mainline approval for the onboard rail system developed by ECC and DB. Freightliner, a global leader in rail freight, is the first operator to commit to participating in the approval process. We are also engaged in ongoing discussions with two additional operators.
Patent Application
AHT has resumed work with Mathys and Squire on IP protection after pausing earlier in 2024 to avoid extra costs during ongoing system changes. With the hydrogen generator design nearly finalised, we are proceeding with the patent application to secure strong protection for our technologies across the territories where we will operate.
