Air Products' Strategic Expansion of Hydrogen Refuelling Stations Across Europe
Key Ideas
- Air Products unveils plans for a network of commercial-scale hydrogen refuelling stations along major European transportation corridors to support a resilient hydrogen ecosystem.
- The stations will offer advanced fueling technology, multiple pressure options, and liquid hydrogen storage, with a supply of renewable hydrogen from the company's global network.
- Collaboration with Daimler Truck involves trials with Mercedes-Benz GenH2 trucks to gather insights and convert distribution fleets to hydrogen-powered vehicles, enabling long-haul transportation and reducing emissions.
- The expansion of hydrogen refuelling stations in Europe is part of Air Products’ global strategy, which includes similar projects in the U.S. and Canada, aiming to accelerate the energy transition worldwide.
Air Products has announced plans to establish a network of permanent, commercial-scale hydrogen refuelling stations in strategic locations across Europe, particularly near the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). These stations will enhance fueling technology, provide multiple pressure options, and incorporate onsite liquid hydrogen storage to facilitate liquid fueling. The supply of renewable hydrogen will come from Air Products' global network, with a focus on supporting heavy-duty transportation. Additionally, the company is progressing well with awarded subsidies from the European Commission and other entities to build several high-capacity hydrogen refuelling stations in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. These initiatives aim to ensure reliability and convenience for hydrogen-powered transportation in Europe.
Air Products is also collaborating with Daimler Truck in piloting Mercedes-Benz GenH2 trucks at their mobile fuelling station in Duisburg. By trialling these trucks under real heavy-duty fueling conditions, valuable insights are being gained into liquid hydrogen fueling technology. The use of liquid hydrogen offers a range of over 1,000 kilometers, increased energy density, and higher payload capacity compared to compressed gaseous hydrogen, making it suitable for long-haul transportation. This aligns with Air Products' commitment to convert its distribution fleet to hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Moreover, the expansion of hydrogen refuelling stations in Europe is part of Air Products' broader global strategy, which includes similar projects in the U.S. and Canada. This strategic move aims to accelerate the energy transition worldwide and promote sustainable transportation solutions. With Air Products' expertise in hydrogen technologies and extensive operating experience in fueling station projects globally, this network of hydrogen refuelling stations marks a significant step towards advancing the adoption of hydrogen as a renewable energy source in the transportation sector.