New Zealand's Transition to Emissions-Free Transport Accelerates with EECA's Fund Support
Key Ideas
- EECA's $30 million fund will cover a significant portion of the cost for zero emissions heavy vehicles, including hydrogen trucks, in New Zealand.
- Hiringa Energy views this fund as a pivotal moment for decarbonising heavy transport and signals that hydrogen is the future of transportation.
- Hiringa has opened three hydrogen refuelling stations with plans for more, emphasizing the availability of green hydrogen fuel in the North Island.
- Businesses worldwide are increasingly interested in decarbonising their supply chains and partnering with organizations like Hiringa for innovation and sustainability through hydrogen transport.
Hiringa Energy sees the Low Emissions Heavy Vehicle Fund by EECA as a crucial step in New Zealand's shift towards emissions-free transportation. The fund, worth $30 million, supports up to 25% of the cost of acquiring zero emissions heavy vehicles, including hydrogen trucks. Additionally, it covers nearly 25% of the expenses for converting a diesel truck to a hydrogen dual fuel engine. According to Hiringa's co-founder, Cathy Clennett, this initiative marks a significant progress in decarbonising heavy transport, which is a major emitter in New Zealand. The establishment of hydrogen refuelling stations across the country further reinforces the push for hydrogen vehicles on the roads. Hiringa's CEO, Andrew Clennett, highlights the advantages of hydrogen trucks in terms of efficiency and sustainability, positioning New Zealand as an early adopter in the field. EECA's publication of approved low emission trucks is seen as a positive move, with expectations for more hydrogen options to be included in the future, expanding the impact of the grant.