The first fleet of hydrogen-powered buses has hit the streets as part of Tper’s transition toward zero-emission public transportation.
With an impressive rollout, 37 buses are expected to be in service by mid-year, 34 in Bologna and 3 in Ferrara. By next year, 137 hydrogen buses will be operational, with Bologna hosting 127 and Ferrara 10. These vehicles mark Tper’s commitment to using fuel cell technology with the support of the Pnrr funding.
The Urbino 12 hydrogen bus, manufactured by Solaris Italia, made its debut in Piazza Maggiore. It features five fuel tanks on its roof, enabling it to travel over 350 kilometers on a single fill-up while maintaining zero emissions. The buses vary in design, offering two or three-door options suitable for urban and suburban routes. This innovation is backed by a 74.9 million euro investment, predominantly funded by the Pnrr.
Giuseppina Gualtieri, the CEO and President of Tper, emphasizes that the company is embracing a technological shift. Highlighting the importance of taking every opportunity for energy mix adoption, the initiative marks a significant step toward zero emissions in public transport. This technological progress aligns with Tper’s broader investment plan of 430 million euros by 2030 to achieve climate neutrality. The hydrogen bus project itself required comprehensive feasibility studies and is on track to meet Pnrr deadlines, concluding by 2026.
As part of the project, Tper has tasked TPH2, in collaboration with HGeneration srl of the Wolftank Group, to establish three hydrogen refueling stations. The planned facilities include three in Bologna and one in Ferrara. These stations will support both refueling and hydrogen production, managed directly by Tper. The hydrogen sourced will be either green or low-carbon, complying with Pnrr standards. Overall, the initiative represents an investment of over 100 million euros, incorporating both Pnrr funding and internal company resources.
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