Revolutionizing Transport with Clean Hydrogen: The Role of Very Light Rail
Key Ideas
- Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) launches a new working group to explore clean hydrogen propulsion for very light rail systems.
- Experts discuss the potential applications of hydrogen in manufacturing and transport, focusing on the UK economy and decarbonisation agenda for rail.
- Triton Hydrogen and Light Rail (UK) Group present the concept of hydrogen trams 'as-a-service' (HTaaS) as a solution to address congestion and poor air quality.
- The Clean Futures programme aims to accelerate the commercialization of innovative transport systems and introduce new 'systems thinking' transport accelerators at BCIMO.
The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) recently initiated discussions on the adoption of clean hydrogen propulsion for very light rail systems. The session, led by industry experts and supported by the Clean Futures Accelerator programme, emphasized the significance of hydrogen in addressing environmental concerns and fostering sustainability in transportation. Dr. Michaela Kendall highlighted the various challenges and opportunities associated with the hydrogen economy, emphasizing its role in decarbonizing the rail sector and contributing to the UK economy.
Triton Hydrogen and Light Rail (UK) Group introduced the concept of hydrogen trams 'as-a-service' (HTaaS) as a solution to combat congestion and air quality issues. They discussed leveraging private investment for infrastructure development and utilizing urban waste for hydrogen production, promoting a circular economy approach. The presentation also underlined the environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness of very light rail (VLR) systems powered by hydrogen.
The Clean Futures programme, focusing on advancing innovative transport solutions, aims to bridge the gap between technology readiness and commercialization. Naomi Arblaster discussed the program's role in facilitating collaboration between innovators, industry, and investors to accelerate the deployment of sustainable transport systems. The session concluded with plans to establish new transport accelerators at BCIMO, including initiatives for hydrogen tram systems, road-to-rail systems, and autonomous transport systems.
The round table discussion highlighted the potential of HTaaS in supporting housing and reducing environmental impacts, along with challenges related to standardization and public perception. As the group prepares to analyze and utilize the captured insights, BCIMO looks towards a future of sustainable, innovative transport solutions driven by clean hydrogen propulsion.