Hydrogen Trials Pave the Path for Fleet Decarbonisation
The hydrogen sector offers a highly collaborative environment. At FCS, we actively partner with a multitude of companies, often UK-based, to execute pioneering projects and trials showcasing hydrogen’s pivotal role in industrial decarbonisation.
One ongoing project undergoing trials in South Wales involves a partnership between Wales and West Utilities (WWU) and prominent hydrogen innovators including First Hydrogen, Protium Green Solutions and Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions. Together, they're establishing a hydrogen ecosystem to support a trial of hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV’s). At the heart of this ecosystem lies our HyQube refueller.
Collaboratively the partners are constructing a functional ecosystem with our HyQube redeployable refueller and green hydrogen to enable the adaptability and speed necessary for a successful trial. This innovative approach could potentially serve as a model for future hydrogen vehicle trials across the UK.
FCEV Image credit: First Hydrogen
One of the primary obstacles hindering hydrogen adoption is the availability of the hydrogen itself and the infrastructure for refuelling, partially in suitable locations. In this trial hydrogen sourced from Protium’s Pioneer 1 facility, one of the UK’s first pioneer hydrogen production sites, is utilised alongside our HyQube redeployable refueler, operated by Hyppo Hydrogen. This approach ensures the agility and rapid deployment required for swiftly initiating trials.
Operating from the WWU Swansea Depot, the FCEV integrates into the business’ fleet consisting of 1300 vehicles deployed throughout Wales and the Southwest of England. The seamless integration allows First Hydrogen’s FCEV to undergo regular operations, a pivotal step in the future rollout of FCEV's. Beyond assessing the vehicle's suitability for WWU's operational needs, this trial also aims to establish a replicable model in other locations or scaled-up widespread adoption.
More than just introducing new technology, this initiative is a strategic effort to instil public confidence in hydrogen as a safe and valuable regional asset. With the Welsh government taking proactive steps towards hydrogen adoption and decarbonization initiatives, this trial underscores Wales’s leadership role in the UK’s hydrogen adoption endeavours.
Lee Juby commented: “At FCS, we firmly believe in the value of these small-scale trials. They are not only cost-effective but also invaluable opportunities for businesses to test hydrogen vehicles before making substantial investments. Each trial represents a significant stride towards the road to net zero and the advancement of a sustainable future – a journey we are fully committed to.”
If you’re considering integrating fuel cells or our hydrogen products into your business operations, we would be happy to engage in discussion and share our expertise. At FCS we manufacture a range of refuelling equipment, sized to meet each customer’s needs. Let’s explore how we can collaborate to meet your needs!