Decentralising Hydrogen: Overcoming Grid and Storage Hurdles in European Public Transport
Key Ideas
  • 93% of European public transport decisionmakers are concerned about grid capacity for battery electric or hydrogen-powered fleets.
  • 89% believe hydrogen can address limitations of battery-powered fleets.
  • Research highlights a growing interest in hydrogen adoption, with 21% already having hydrogen vehicles and 61% planning investments in the next two years.
  • Challenges include limited access to fuelling infrastructure and hydrogen storage, emphasizing the need for decentralised solutions.
A recent survey by IMI reveals significant concerns among European public transport decision makers regarding grid capacity for transitioning to hydrogen or electric-powered fleets. Despite challenges, 89% of respondents see hydrogen as a solution for addressing limitations of battery-powered vehicles. The research underscores a positive trend toward hydrogen adoption, with a considerable percentage already owning hydrogen vehicles and planning future investments. However, barriers like limited fuelling infrastructure and safe hydrogen storage remain prevalent. The study suggests decentralised electrolysis as a viable solution to bridge existing gaps in infrastructure and promote trial runs of hydrogen vehicles. Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of storage safety and the necessity of smaller, localised electrolysers to facilitate the growth of hydrogen-powered fleets. IMI's 'The Road Ahead' report delves into the challenges faced by public transport in adopting hydrogen and highlights the potential of on-site electrolyser technology in overcoming these hurdles. The research also stresses the need for closer collaboration with developers of smaller-scale electrolysers to mitigate risks and showcase the benefits of hydrogen transport to transport managers. Overall, the sentiment is positive towards hydrogen adoption in public transport, with an emphasis on decentralisation as a key strategy to unlock the element's potential within the sector.
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