UK’s first hydrogen fuelling network set to open in London

As part of the Hydrogen Transport for European Cities (HyTEC) scheme, 15 hydrogen-powered black-cabs and five hydrogen-powered Suzuki Bergmann scooters will take to the streets of London, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions in the capital.

While hydrogen buses are already used to transport commuters around the city, the introduction of additional hydrogen-powered taxis and scooters is expected to increase the benefits of hydrogen as a fuel.

Part funded by the Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCHJU) the project will also see the installation of an air products hydrogen fuelling station in London. This will connect London’s two existing fuelling stations which support its hydrogen bus fleet.

HyTEC European business manager Diana Raine, said: “This new project shows London is leading the way in establishing hydrogen transport infrastructure compared to other environmental world cities. Creating a network of hydrogen fuelling stations will make it possible for fleets of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the Capital, cutting carbon emissions and air pollution.”

The vehicles and refuelling site forms part of mayor of London Boris Johnson’s to promote zero and low emission technologies in the capital and tackle air pollution. It is anticipated the new project will help London develop a vital infrastructure network of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, with many in time for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Mr Johnson said: “I want London to become a zero-emission city in order to deliver cleaner air and improve quality of life. It is important that London champions innovative new technologies to get us to this point, which is why I am delighted we are set to get even more hydrogen vehicles on our streets in time for the Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.

“This supports my drive to promote the uptake of cleaner vehicles such as electric cars and the new fleet of hydrogen buses running in London, which is setting industry standards.”

Carys Matthews