Devils Bridge feasibility study explores replacing diesel with wind-generated fuel
A NEW clean energy project in Devils Bridge is exploring how green hydrogen could help decarbonise forestry operations across Mid Wales.
The scheme, led by Challoch Energy Ltd, will examine whether locally generated wind power can be used to produce green hydrogen to replace diesel in forestry machinery and timber transport vehicles — cutting emissions in one of the region’s most important industries.
The project has secured backing through Growing Mid Wales under its Whole System Research for Innovation and Decarbonisation (WSRID) programme. The initiative forms part of Welsh Government Climate Innovation funding, supporting applied research and feasibility studies that test low-carbon solutions in real-world rural settings.
Supporting a key rural employer
Forestry remains a cornerstone of the Mid Wales economy, supporting around 14,000 jobs. However, the sector currently relies heavily on diesel-powered machinery and haulage.
This latest feasibility study will assess whether renewable energy generated locally could provide a practical and cleaner alternative, helping reduce carbon emissions while strengthening the long-term resilience of rural industries.
The project team will work closely with the Mid Wales timber transport group — including Natural Resources Wales, Ceredigion, Powys and Carmarthenshire County Councils, timber companies and hauliers — to identify potential locations for wind turbines and hydrogen production facilities.
A key focus will be on local ownership and community benefit, with the aim of keeping both energy generation and consumption within the region.
Part of wider clean energy push
The Challoch Energy scheme is one of four clean energy initiatives currently supported through the WSRID programme. Other projects are exploring solutions such as converting livestock slurry into renewable energy and nutrient products, developing digital tools to support net zero planning on dairy farms, and piloting community-focused energy systems to improve local resilience.
Together, the projects aim to position Mid Wales as a “living testbed” for low-carbon solutions tailored to rural, agricultural and land-based economies.
In a joint statement, the Joint Chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board — Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, and Jake Berriman, Leader of Powys County Council — said:
“Through the WSRID programme, we are supporting practical, place-based solutions that respond to the needs of our rural economy while contributing to Wales’ net zero ambitions.”
Scalable model for Wales?
If successful, the green hydrogen approach could provide a model for more sustainable forestry not only in Mid Wales, but across the country.
Dr Simon Minett, Managing Director of Challoch Energy Ltd, said the project aims to deliver workable solutions.
“This project will help Mid Wales cut emissions, support jobs, and build a stronger rural economy by using wind power to produce hydrogen. Forestry is essential to the region, and we want to explore solutions that work in practice, not just in theory,” he said.
The feasibility study will assess technical, commercial and regulatory considerations, alongside stakeholder engagement. Subject to the findings, the project could move to full-scale delivery in a future phase.
The initiative will also feature in an upcoming episode of Business News Wales’ “Unlocking Mid Wales” podcast, which explores how clean energy innovation is being tested and applied across the region, with results expected to emerge from 2026 onwards.
