The Shift Toward Non-Diesel-Powered Machinery
As the landscape of agriculture evolves, so too does the technology we rely on. This month, our National Farm Research Unit conducted a poll exploring UK farmers’ perspectives on non-diesel-powered machinery.
We engaged with 1,506 farmers from across the UK, uncovering a mix of curiosity and concern about adopting alternative fuel technologies on British farms.
Would Farmers Consider Non-Diesel-Powered Machinery?
Percentage of consideration
Our survey revealed that 37% of farmers would consider using non-diesel-powered machinery in the future. However, 48% expressed hesitance, with the remaining respondents unsure or undecided.
This indicates a significant divide in readiness for change within the farming community.
What Types of Alternatives Are Most Appealing?
Type by percentage
Among the 37% open to non-diesel options, hydrogen emerged as the leading alternative, capturing the interest of 30% of all farmers surveyed.
Other options, such as electric, biofuel, and hybrid models, received smaller shares of interest, indicating that while alternatives are being considered, hydrogen is currently the front-runner.
What’s Holding Farmers Back?
Reason by percentage
For the 48% of farmers not considering non-diesel machinery, 27% cited reliability concerns as their primary reason.
Additional worries included the cost of new technologies, availability, and performance uncertainties. These concerns highlight the need for reliable, cost-effective solutions to encourage wider adoption.
Experience Matters: Openness to Change Dependent on Time Spent in Farming?
Interestingly, the survey showed that…
farmers newer to the industry are more open to experimenting with non-diesel machinery.
In contrast, long-established farmers exhibited greater hesitation,
…often due to a strong familiarity with diesel technology and concerns about the dependability of newer options
In Summary
While nearly half of UK farmers remain cautious about moving away from diesel, a notable 38% are already considering more sustainable options.
Hydrogen power stands out as the most promising contender, especially among the newer generations of farmers eager to innovate. As the industry continues to evolve, the shift toward alternative fuels may become a pivotal part of the agricultural future.
Each quarter we would like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our fantastic team of interviewers. This quarter’s spotlight focuses on Claire
Why I enjoy speaking to farmers
Having worked at the NFRU now for 3 years, I love to speak to Farmer’s on a daily basis. Each day can be so different, and it is interesting to understand each farmers operation and how they work. There are so many diversifications and techniques in farming now that my knowledge within the agriculture sector has been increasing day by day and speaking to the farmers has taught me so much more. The one main thing being the fact that farmers are so dedicated to their work and put all their time and effort into it. Agriculture is their way of life come rain or shine.
What is it like working at NFRU
I work with a lovely team of people at all levels who are very supportive and helpful. I love working on different projects and even get to speak with vets on occasion, providing variety.
About me
Outside of work I enjoy walks in nature, gardening, alternative therapies. I also enjoy a great show at the local theatre and a good catch up with family and friends
National Farm Research Charitable Donations
| Cumulative Donations since Oct 2018 | |
| RABI | £14,266.75 |
| RSABI | £1,795.41 |
| Forage Aid | £9,946.46 |
| Farming Community Network | £6,624.25 |
| Rural Support NI | £703.40 |
| Embrace Farm | 4892.90€ |
RABI - Freephone helpline on 0800 188 4444.
Email at
RSABI - Freephone 0808 1234 555
Forage Aid (Addington Fund) – Helpline 01926 620135
Farming Community Network – Helpline 03000 111 999
email
Rural Support – Helpline 0800 1381 678
Embrace Farm Ireland – Helpline Ireland 085 77 09 966
Our Support for Farmers
Farmers participating in our on-going research studies can gain valuable BASIS and NRoSO points. Simply give your BASIS number to our interviewer when they call to update your record. To claim your NRoSO points please log onto the website and enter code NO471443f
This code is valid for 12 months from the 1st September 2025
We are always pleased to receive your feedback, or if you would like to have your views and opinions heard by taking part in our research projects please email: