California Debates Role of Hydrogen Fuel Cells in Clean Car Transition Amid Electric Vehicle Dominance
With electric cars gaining traction in California and one in every five new cars being battery-powered, the state is now witnessing a legislative tussle over the role of hydrogen fuel cells in its clean car transformation. As the government and automakers push towards a fossil fuel-free future, the rapid shift to electric vehicles has sparked a debate over whether hydrogen fuel cells will share a significant slice of the clean car market.
The discussion revolves around how much funding hydrogen suppliers should receive for building refueling stations. Lobbying groups including industry giants Chevron, Shell, and Toyota are advocating for a designated 30% share of the state’s Clean Transportation Program funds, amounting to $300 million over the next decade. The program, funded by fees paid by California drivers, aims to support alternative fuels and clean vehicle technologies.
While hydrogen cars, like electric vehicles, emit no pollutants during operation, the technology relies on compressed hydrogen gas, often derived from natural gas – a fossil fuel. Presently, only two hydrogen models, Toyota Mirai, and Hyundai Nexo, are available in California, resulting in limited demand and sales. However, hydrogen supporters emphasize the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in addressing the heavy-duty sector and as a renewable energy source.
The debate among legislators, particularly Democrats, hinges on how much funding should be allocated to hydrogen fueling stations. The state’s success in transitioning to cleaner transportation and achieving its climate goals might depend on the resolution of this conflict. As California races to meet its target of 100% renewable and carbon-free electricity by 2045, the tug-of-war between hydrogen and electric vehicles illuminates the complexities of navigating a green future.
Dutch Shipping Company Begins Hydrogen Retrofit for Zero-Emission Vessel
Future Proof Shipping (FPS), a Dutch shipping company, has initiated the retrofit process of its vessel FPS Waal, marking the end of its inland voyages powered by a diesel engine. The ship has arrived at the Holland Shipyards Group shipyard in Werkendam for its transformation into a fully zero-emission vessel. The retrofit involves removing internal combustion engines and installing a zero-emission propulsion system, including PEM fuel cells, hydrogen storage, battery packs, and an electric drive train. The move aligns with FPS’s commitment to green shipping and reduces its carbon footprint.
Korea’s Autonomous ‘Panta G Bus’ Hits the Road; 12 Industrial Sectors Targeted for Funding
South Korea’s first public autonomous driving bus, the ‘Panta G Bus,’ is undergoing trials in Seongnam City’s Pangyo Techno Valley. In a bid to boost industrial growth, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is inviting companies to apply for 12 trillion won in policy financing across 12 sectors including displays, hydrogen, aerospace, batteries, and semiconductors. Successful candidates can expect preferential funding from policy financial institutions, aligned with the government’s push for innovation and economic development.
Argentina’s First Hydrogen Sector Survey Launched for Enhanced Collaboration
The Argentine-German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Argentina) has initiated the first hydrogen sector survey in Argentina, aiming to identify key players, roles, training needs, and future potential in the hydrogen market. The survey, conducted under the H2Uppp Development Program, will form the basis for an actor map, fostering efficient cooperation between Argentine and German companies. Results will be revealed in November at the Hydrogen Forum and later published on AHK Argentina’s website for public access.
