The UK’s first integrated hydrogen generation and bus refuelling station opened today in Aberdeen.
Based on a 1MW water electrolyser, it will power 10 hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles on routes run by First Group Scotland and Stagecoach Aberdeen – described by city council leader Councillor Jenny Laing as ‘Europe’s largest fleet’.
Operated by industrial gas supplier BOC, the unit forms part of the £19m, EU-funded Aberdeen Hydrogen Bus Project.
Speaking at the launch, Scottish transport minister Derek Mackay said: ‘The Government is supporting the introduction of cleaner and greener transport options across Scotland.
‘Aberdeen’s public will welcome the smoother and quieter journeys these buses bring, which will undoubtedly add to their attractiveness as a travel choice. The project isn’t just good news for transport. It also demonstrates how we can integrate our energy and transport sectors, as well as making the most of Scotland’s vast renewable energy resources.'
Stagecoach North Scotland managing director, Steve Walker said: 'We are committed to reducing the impact of our operations on the environment'.
First Aberdeen managing director, David Phillips added: ‘Our four hydrogen-powered vehicles are already out in service and proving really popular. They complement our £4.3m investment last year in 26 micro-hybrid vehicles’.
