The anticipated completion of what was poised to be the “world’s largest hydrogen refuelling station” has been pushed back.
Hydra Energy’s spokesperson, Katherine Arnett, recently confirmed a shift in the completion timeline for the flagship refuelling station in P.G. While initially scheduled for completion by early this year, the new target for opening is now set for fall 2026. Arnett attributed the delay to the need for long lead items and unspecified new requirements from the BC Environmental Review (BCER), highlighting unforeseen hurdles in the project execution.
Despite acknowledging the delay, specific details regarding the new requirements from the BCER were not provided. This lack of transparency raises concerns about the nature and extent of regulatory hurdles contributing to the project’s setback. Without clear insights into the regulatory landscape, stakeholders are left in the dark about the challenges faced by Hydra Energy in navigating the approval process.
Arnett expressed continued positivity about the project’s prospects, emphasizing Hydra’s commitment to advancing hydrogen infrastructure in the Prince George community. However, the absence of concrete information on how the company plans to address the identified obstacles leaves room for uncertainty. Stakeholders may seek reassurance through transparent communication and proactive measures to mitigate delays.
Once operational, the $62-million facility is expected to produce 3,250 kilograms of low-carbon hydrogen per day, sourced from two on-site, five-megawatt electrolyzers powered by BC Hydro. The station’s capacity to refuel up to 24 converted trucks each hour across four bays underscores its significance in facilitating the transition to hydrogen-powered transportation. However, the delay in commissioning raises concerns about missed opportunities for accelerating decarbonization efforts in the region.
