Hyundai Rotem is set to provide a new source of hydrogen extracted from industrial waste for their innovative ‘hydrogen trams’. This endeavor not only underscores the potential of these advanced trams but also highlights the significance of producing ‘eco-friendly hydrogen’ from otherwise challenging-to-recycle industrial waste.
Scheduled for the 31st of this month, Hyundai Rotem is poised to ink a momentous Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Korea Environment Agency for the supply of ‘biogas-based hydrogen fuel’. Key executives including Hyundai Rotem CEO Lee Yong-bae and officials from the Korea Environment Corporation, including Chairman Ahn Byung-ok, are expected to attend the signing ceremony.
This collaboration aims to create the necessary infrastructure to provide hydrogen fuel for the hydrogen trams and commercial vehicles developed by Hyundai Rotem. The move towards producing domestic hydrogen energy holds the potential for stabilizing hydrogen prices, which are currently predominantly imported. Additionally, this initiative aligns with the Korean government’s recent push for a “net zero (zero carbon emissions) policy by 2050.”
Hyundai Rotem’s ambitious plans extend to the development of hydrogen-electric trams, with a futuristic design in the works and a production target set for this year. The company’s strategic approach involves gradually expanding its hydrogen tram lineup by introducing models of varying sizes, ultimately transitioning from fossil fuel-based energy sources to hydrogen.
A significant aspect of this undertaking is the investment in crucial infrastructure. In 2020, Hyundai Rotem completed the construction of a hydrogen extractor plant at the Uiwang Research Institute. Moreover, they are currently operating a hydrogen extractor for a bio-green hydrogen refueling station in Chungju, a city renowned for its role in the railway industry.
Beyond these advancements, Hyundai Rotem is actively engaged in the development of innovative technologies such as liquid hydrogen storage and carbon dioxide capture, essential for the production of green hydrogen. Leveraging biogas from industrial waste to generate hydrogen adds another layer to the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) management.
