Ohio Transit Authority's Transition to Green Hydrogen: A Sustainable Journey
Key Ideas
  • Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) in Ohio, with 22 hydrogen fuel-cell buses, plans to switch to green hydrogen production powered by solar energy to reduce emissions and increase resiliency.
  • The project, part of the ARCH2 clean hydrogen hub, aims to install 1,000 solar panels to generate 1 megawatt of electricity to produce 1 ton of hydrogen per day, enough to fuel 40 buses.
  • The $15 million project, predominantly funded by federal grants, could double SARTA's hydrogen supply, lower costs, and emissions, contributing to U.S. energy independence goals.
  • While some advocate for electric or biodiesel buses over fuel-cell buses, the transition to green hydrogen reflects SARTA's commitment to evolving technology for cleaner and more sustainable transit options.
The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) in Canton, Ohio, which operates 22 hydrogen fuel-cell buses, is planning a transition to a cleaner and more sustainable fuel source by producing green hydrogen on-site. SARTA, one of the nation's largest hydrogen-powered transit fleets, is partnering with energy company Enbridge and the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2) to implement this project. The aim is to harness solar power to power an electrolysis facility that will split water into oxygen and hydrogen, producing approximately 1 ton of hydrogen per day. This green hydrogen will replace the current hydrogen sourced from Canada, which emits significant carbon dioxide during production. The project, estimated to cost around $15 million, is set to receive substantial federal funding under the bipartisan infrastructure law. The installation of 1,000 solar panels on 10 acres of land adjacent to SARTA's existing facility will not only enhance hydrogen production but also increase the agency's resiliency by reducing reliance on external fuel sources. The transition to green hydrogen aligns with SARTA's commitment to cleaner fuels and sustainability, despite initial challenges in accessing green hydrogen a decade ago. The project's success would mark a significant milestone for SARTA, doubling its hydrogen supply, reducing costs and emissions, and supporting U.S. energy independence goals. Although some experts suggest alternatives like electric or biodiesel buses for emission reduction, SARTA remains dedicated to advancing technology towards a greener future. The anticipated completion date for on-site hydrogen production is 2028, showcasing a pivotal step towards a more sustainable transit system.
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