East Wenatchee Leading the Way with Hydrogen-Powered Police Vehicle Partnership
Key Ideas
- East Wenatchee Police Department becomes the first in the nation to incorporate a hydrogen-powered vehicle, showcasing commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Partnership between Douglas County PUD, City of East Wenatchee, Bonneville Environmental Foundation, and Toyota aims to explore the potential of renewable hydrogen as a clean fuel source.
- Utility's construction of a renewable hydrogen production facility signifies a step towards reducing environmental impact and maintenance costs in the region.
- The collaboration between EWPD and Douglas County PUD builds on previous success with electric fleet vehicles, highlighting cost-effective and environmentally sustainable options.
East Wenatchee Police Department (EWPD) has taken a pioneering step by introducing a hydrogen-powered vehicle to its fleet, becoming the first police agency in the United States to do so. Partnering with Douglas County PUD, the City of East Wenatchee is set to explore the capabilities of renewable hydrogen as a clean fuel source in collaboration with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation and Toyota. The initiative includes the lease of four used Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, with commercial hydrogen production expected to commence in early 2025. Through electrolysis, hydrogen will be extracted from water at a renewable hydrogen production facility near East Wenatchee, aiming to both reduce maintenance costs and promote environmental sustainability. The partnership also highlights the city's commitment to green technology, following a successful electric fleet vehicle pilot project. East Wenatchee Police Chief Rick Johnson expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to test the Toyota Mirai in law enforcement operations, emphasizing the potential benefits of hydrogen technology. Mayor Jerrilea Crawford praised the collaboration with Douglas County PUD for advancing efficiency and reducing the city's environmental footprint. The hydrogen-powered vehicle is designated for administrative use, aligning with the city's goals of innovation and sustainability.