Formula 1 to trial new low-carbon energy system in Austria

40

Formula 1 will trial in Austria this week a next-generation low-carbon energy system that will power for the duration of the race weekend the entire paddock, the teams' garages and the circuit's pitlane.

The innovative system – which is being trialed at the Red Bull Ring as part the sport's sustainability efforts – is expected to deliver an estimated 90% carbon reduction of F1's on-site operations, including its broadcast area.

Formula 1 says the system will produce "enough energy to meet peak and continuous demand over the race weekend", adding that it will be powered by sustainable sources, including a hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel and 600m2 of solar panels deployed on the inner field of the final corner at the Red Bull Ring, all of which will provide an estimated 2.5MWh of energy across the event.

The trial will allow Formula 1 to "collect and analyse crucial data that could lead to a more streamlined system being rolled out at future events".

It marks the latest development by the sport to move towards using greener energy operations at race weekends and is another step towards F1’s target of becoming Net Zero Carbon by 2030.

Read also: Liberty would want 'a hell of a lot more' than $20 billion for F1

Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1 said: "As we’ve shown with the progress made on our sustainable fuels, F1 is serious about using innovation to create a more sustainable sport and have a meaningful impact and influence on the wider world.

"While the running on the new energy system in Austria is only a trial for now, it demonstrates the intention of the sport to continue exploring more ways of making our logistics and operations more efficient, with the potential to share those learnings with other major events."

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.