Air Products' European Expansion: Advancing Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure
Key Ideas
- Air Products plans a network of commercial-scale hydrogen refueling stations along major European transportation corridors, supporting a resilient hydrogen ecosystem.
- The stations will feature advanced fueling technology, multiple pressure options, and onsite liquid hydrogen storage for heavy-duty transportation.
- Partnerships with Daimler Truck for a hydrogen truck pilot project and commitment to convert distribution fleet to hydrogen-powered vehicles demonstrate the company's dedication to sustainable transportation.
- Liquid hydrogen fueling offers benefits in range, energy density, cost, and weight, making it a viable and efficient alternative for long-haul road transportation.
Air Products has unveiled plans to build a network of permanent, commercial-scale hydrogen refueling stations strategically located along major transportation corridors in Europe near the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). These stations aim to connect key locations and foster the growth of a safe and resilient hydrogen ecosystem. The stations will provide advanced fueling technology, multiple pressure options, and onsite liquid hydrogen storage to facilitate liquid fueling for heavy-duty transportation. Renewable hydrogen from Air Products' global network will power these stations, including a new hydrogen liquefaction plant in Rotterdam that will double Europe's liquid hydrogen capacity once operational.
Several stations have been awarded subsidies by the European Commission through the CEF funding program, with additional funding from the Ministry of Economic Affairs in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Collaborating with Daimler Truck, Air Products is conducting a hydrogen truck pilot project in Duisburg, where Mercedes-Benz GenH2 trucks are being trialed for real heavy-duty fueling conditions. These trucks will be fueled with liquid hydrogen, enabling a range of over 1,000 kilometers, with advantages in energy density, cost, and weight compared to compressed gaseous hydrogen. The project aligns with Air Products' commitment to convert its distribution fleet to hydrogen-powered vehicles.
The partnership with Daimler Truck emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive infrastructure for sustainable transportation, in addition to high-performance CO2-neutral vehicles. Martin Daum, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG, emphasizes the need for further momentum in infrastructure development and cost parity with conventional vehicles across Europe. Air Products' dedication to providing critical hydrogen refueling infrastructure and liquid hydrogen supports the transition towards sustainable transportation in the region.
Topics
Europe
Infrastructure Development
Fueling Technology
Hydrogen-powered Vehicles
Heavy-duty Transportation
European Commission Funding
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