In its infant stage, hydrogen technology was deemed revolutionary for the renewable energy sector. After all, hydrogen energy was far cleaner than electric energy, particularly for cars, trucks, and buses.
However, over time, people’s perception of hydrogen energy has somewhat changed. This is mostly because:
- Compared to petroleum-based fuels, hydrogen lacks the volumetric energy density
- It’s more energy-intensive to produce.
- Storing hydrogen is difficult.
- Apart from hydrogen storage systems, hydrogen transportation is also difficult.
More recently, the use of hydrogen buses across various cities has been put into question.
Experts have warned that Australia’s plan to introduce hydrogen buses is not a good one. According to them, these buses tend to be more expensive than their electric counterparts and are not a true zero-emissions solution.
The city of Pau in France has also dumped its plans to adopt hydrogen buses. Pau now plans to switch to battery-powered electric buses instead.
However, despite many turning away from hydrogen-powered buses, it seems that these vehicles are still in demand. Here’s why.
It is Becoming Easier to Store Hydrogen
A lot of time, effort, and money has gone into hydrogen storage research over the years, and it is now bearing fruit. This fruit is being served to us in the form of solid-state hydrogen storage.
Liquid hydrogen storage requires expensive cryogenic equipment, and the liquid form also tends to evaporate over time. Similarly, high-pressure hydrogen storage requires tanks designed to withstand pressures up to 1,000 bar. However, modern hydrogen storage solutions no longer require liquefaction nor compression. Working at ambient temperature and low pressure, they are also ideal to preserve hydrogen for long-term storage.
According to H2MOF, these modern solid-state hydrogen storage solutions are based on novel nanomaterials designed with atomic precision. Such technology allows for safer and more efficient hydrogen storage and transportation, compared to traditional storage methods.
Hydrogen Buses are Becoming More Affordable
While we did start this article on a rather gloomy note regarding the high costs, modern hydrogen buses have become a lot more affordable. The most efficient hydrogen storage technology can help save millions every year on a fleet of around a hundred hydrogen buses.
Similar storage technology is also being used at hydrogen refueling stations. This tech requires lower investment costs, hence service charges at these stations are also likely to be low. Improved fuel cell efficiency and mass production techniques have also reduced costs significantly.
Besides, governments and private sectors are heavily investing in hydrogen infrastructure, driving down expenses further. Their goal is simple – make hydrogen the future of sustainability.
Incentives and subsidies for clean energy vehicles also make hydrogen buses a viable option for public transportation fleets. As technology continues to evolve, hydrogen buses offer an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered buses.
For the Sake of Our Planet
Hydrogen buses are in demand as they are still relevant when it comes to ensuring a carbon-free planet. Here’s how.
A Zero-Emission Solution
Hydrogen buses offer a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles. In fact, hydrogen buses run on fuel cells, which produce electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Hence, the only byproduct of this process is water vapor.
This makes hydrogen buses a zero-emission solution that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants in urban areas.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
Did you know that using hydrogen can help avoid 90 to 99 percent of CO2 emissions? Compared to that, traditional buses powered by fossil fuels release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
In contrast, hydrogen buses emit no carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change and improve air quality. As we replace diesel buses with hydrogen-powered ones, cities can make a substantial impact on their overall carbon emissions.
Promoting Sustainable Development
Hydrogen buses contribute to sustainable development by promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources. Hydrogen, derived from resources like solar and wind power, serves as a flexible and environmentally friendly fuel choice.
Developing hydrogen infrastructure, including fueling stations and production facilities, helps support economic growth. It also generates green employment opportunities.
The Demand for Hydrogen Buses will Continue to Grow
As per research conducted by FMI, the hydrogen bus market was valued at $831 million in 2023. At a CAGR of 31 percent, the market is expected to reach a value of $12,558.5 million by 2033.
This growing market is a clear indication that hydrogen buses are currently in demand. The demand for such buses is expected to only grow in the coming years. Hence, although expensive, something that’s expected to change soon, these buses are still finding their way into our cities and towns.
As hydrogen storage and transportation technology becomes more and more viable, the adoption rate of these buses will rise. Most importantly, hydrogen buses are vital to protect our planet from the effects of climate change. Hence, it’s only logical that these buses will play a key role in our mainstream public transportation system.
