In the spirit of the COP 30 Presidency’s call for a global mutirão – a collective effort to mobilize climate action – the Business Council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE) will lead a business delegation to COP 30 in Belém, Brazil that will bring forward credible solutions, partnerships, investments, and ideas to accelerate the energy transition and decarbonize agriculture, buildings, industry, and transportation. This case study is part of BCSE’s Granary of Solutions to deliver emissions reductions, increase resilience, and meet energy transition goals worldwide.
Highlights:
- A trial of manufacturing 3D-printed concrete foundations is underway in the United Kingdom
- Projected to save consumers £1.7 million over 10 years
- Aims to reduce embodied carbon by 65% and eliminate approximately 323 tons of CO2 over 10 years
Case Study:
National Grid is trialing 3D-printed concrete foundations to reduce carbon emissions and project lead times as an innovative step in sustainable infrastructure. Designed in Finland and tested in Sheffield, the foundations are being displayed and stored at Deeside Centre for Innovation in North Wales with some further testing and installation to take place at Overton substation at Yorkshire Green scheme in the near future.
The project targets Scope 3 emissions, aiming for a 65% reduction in embodied carbon and saving approximately 323 tons of CO₂ over 10 years. It also reduces concrete usage by 70% and on-site construction hours by 50%, minimizing disruption to local communities.
With projected consumer savings of £1.7 million, the initiative demonstrates how advanced manufacturing can support energy efficiency and decarbonization. It also showcases the potential of 3D printing to transform utility-scale construction. The project was made possible through Ofgem’s Network Innovation Allowance and collaboration with Hyperion Robotics, the University of Sheffield, and Murphys.