What is Stage V and Why Should You Care?
This blog aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Stage V ultra-low emissions standards set by the European Union (EU), focusing on how these regulations impact industries such as construction, manufacturing, utilities, and infrastructure.
We’ll explore the most critical aspects of Stage V compliance, its implications for businesses that rely on diesel generators and other non-road mobile machinery, and how adopting greener alternatives can help you stay ahead of regulations. Whether you're in project management, facilities management, or responsible for large-scale operations, understanding these changes is crucial to ensuring both compliance and operational efficiency.
What is Stage V and NRMM legislation?
Stage V is the latest phase of the EU’s NRMM (Non-Road Mobile Machinery) emissions regulations, introduced to reduce the environmental impact of diesel-powered machinery. It enforces stricter limits on pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM) from engines.
This regulation applies to a wide range of machinery, including generators, making it crucial for businesses seeking compliance with eco-friendly standards. To read more on what machinery falls under the NRMM legislation and how it can impact your business read our blog; Your guide to the Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) legislation.
What is a Stage V generator?
A Stage V generator is specifically designed to significantly reduce harmful emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), released into the atmosphere. These generators are built to comply with the stringent Stage V NRMM (Non-Road Mobile Machinery) emissions legislation, making them ideal for industries seeking eco-friendly power solutions. The generators meet the legislation by utilising numerous catalysts and filters throughout the generator to reduce emissions. This makes Stage V generators a top choice for sustainable power generation in construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and other sectors looking to meet regulatory standards.
Power Electrics initially faced the challenge of meeting Stage V emissions with our Ultragen range. These generators are retrofitted Stage IIIA machines that utilise Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC), Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), and Ammonia Slip Catalyst (ASC) in order to meet the new Stage V emissions standards.
Since then, Power Electrics has continued investments into Stage V, by purchasing a range of Stage V sets, from 20kVA up to 500kVA, helping to transition the fleet towards a greener future.
What does Stage V mean for you?
In the short term, the impacts of Stage V legislation will not be felt by the majority, as pressures have been placed more on the manufacturers and suppliers of machinery. The government has also taken a stance that they will still allow Stage IIIA in some areas if proof that Stage V cannot be sourced, as the demand for Stage V currently outnumbers the supply.
As stated in the NRMM Practical Guide v.5, 3.2 Generators pg. 6;
“If you are unable to source a Stage V generator or equivalent retrofit, written justification must be provided by the supplier detailing the reasons why these options were not possible.”
Power Electrics, when supplying generators, can supply proof if required.
In the long term, the UK will see a growing presence of Stage V machinery across various industries as businesses increasingly prioritise compliance with Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and Low Emission Zones (LEZ) for future projects. This shift will play a critical role in reducing air pollution, particularly in urban areas. It will encourage industries like construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure to adopt more environmentally friendly power solutions.
For more information on Clean Air Zones read our blog; What you need to know about Clean Air Zones.
Why do we have Stage V regulations?
In essence, Stage V regulations help industries move towards a greener, healthier future by prioritising sustainable power solutions and reducing their carbon footprint.
The introduction of the legislation is to address the urgent need to combat climate change and protect public health by reducing harmful emissions from non-road mobile machinery. These regulations are a critical part of the global movement towards achieving Net Zero carbon emissions, with governments and industries alike striving to reduce their environmental impact.
By introducing stricter limits on nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), Stage V standards directly target pollutants that contribute to poor air quality, respiratory diseases, and global warming. These measures not only safeguard the environment but also promote cleaner, more sustainable practices across industries.
How can Power Electrics help you to be more environmentally friendly with your temporary power?
With the development of Ultragen and the recent further investment in Stage V generators, Power Electrics is leading the way in the rental power market. In addition to providing Stage V power, Power Electrics has taken other steps on its Journey to Green.
On the journey so far, Power Electrics has invested over £8 million in Battery Energy Storage (BES) Units. These units provide a reliable, eco-friendly way to store and deliver power, reducing reliance on traditional diesel generators and lowering fuel consumption. By integrating a BES unit into your power solution, you can optimise energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and significantly cut operational costs. To read more on the investment, see Power Electrics Expands Hybrid Fleet with £8m Investment.
The use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuels has also played a huge part in the Journey to Green so far. HVO fuel significantly reduces carbon emissions, nitrogen oxides, and particulates, helping to lower the environmental impact of power generation. HVO offers superior performance, with cleaner combustion and improved efficiency compared to conventional diesel. This renewable fuel is also biodegradable and sustainable, making it a greener alternative that supports businesses in reducing their carbon footprint while meeting stringent emissions regulations. To find out more on HVO fuel and how you can implement it on your projects, see HVO Fuel - Diesel Alternative
Thank you for reading our blog on the Stage V regulations. If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this blog or want to find out how Power Electrics can help you with greener temporary power for your next project, please reach out using the link below, and we will be happy to help.
