In early March, HVIA’s Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger joined several members active in the hydrogen ecosystem for Pacific Energy’s ‘ACT Green Hydrogen Refuelling Eco-System Strategy Roundtable’ at the Canberra Institute of Technology.
The goal of the roundtable was to discuss collaboration opportunities centred around the development of a green hydrogen eco-system for freight applications in the ACT.
Green hydrogen, named for its sustainable method of production, is generally regarded as a viable solution to decarbonise the portions of the freight transport task that require high energy density and/or operate in remote areas, away from charging infrastructure.
HVIA members Foton Mobility, Pure Hydrogen, H Drive and Hyundai all presented at the event and gave insights into their current and future hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and presented the results of existing applications as case studies.
Following the roundtable, attendees toured Pacific Energy’s green hydrogen vehicle refuelling facility, and Adam Ritzinger took part in a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle refuelling exercise.
When asked for his thoughts on hydrogen’s current opportunities in freight transport, Adam offered the long view. “The decarbonisation of freight is a global challenge, and industries in many countries are researching, developing and trialling innovative low- and zero-emissions technologies.
“These technologies include hybrid powertrains, battery electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, hydrogen combustion engines, low carbon liquid fuels and powered axles for trailing equipment.
“The eventual degree to which each will contribute to Australia’s net-zero ambitions is unknown. Presently, there is no ‘silver bullet’. Every potential solution holds merit, and different transport sectors and operations, driven by their unique requirements, are likely to favour different solutions.
“In that context, it is imperative that in the immediate term, every available road freight decarbonisation technology is afforded the chance to demonstrate its potential contribution.
“Hence, I encourage every opportunity for HVIA and its members to partner with next-generation energy providers like Pacific Energy, to explore and propose decarbonisation practical and implementable opportunities for our local industry.”
For further information, contact Adam Ritzinger on a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au.