In a pan-Defence collaboration, trials of hydrogen fuelled
charging facilities to power the electric vehicle fleet have
concluded.
This marks a significant step forward in the use of sustainable
energy sources in Defence.
Generating enough electricity to power roughly 120,000 miles of
travel, the trial provided learning on the use of hydrogen as a
source of fuel in Defence's future energy mix.
Hydrogen provides an opportunity to influence operations at home
and overseas, as well as providing resilience and mobility in
off-grid and compromised locations. Following the trials
successful delivery, new initiatives focused on hydrogen as an
energy system for Defence, are planned.
Starting in August 2023, the trial was initially planned for
three sites (RAF Leeming, Devonport Naval Base and Merville
Barracks in Colchester). It was later extended to include two
more (HMS Excellent Portsmouth and RAF Northolt).
On the trial, Assistant Chief of Defence Staff (Support
Operations),Air Vice-Marshal Rich Pratley said:
In embracing innovative solutions like hydrogen power, the
Ministry of Defence has reaffirmed its commitment to
sustainability and as the trial has proved, to improving
operational efficiency.
This trial has demonstrated the potential of hydrogen as a key
enabler of our transition to zero-emissions energy, while also
addressing the current challenges posed by our expanding electric
vehicle fleet.
The trial used Hydrogen Power Units (HPU) to convert hydrogen
into electricity, which is then harnessed to charge electric
vehicles via fast-charging posts. The HPUs provided a reliable
and environmentally friendly source of power, ensuring seamless
rapid charging with zero harmful emissions. They also bypass the
constraints of grid capacity, allowing MOD to provide power even
in areas where grid upgrades are delayed or not feasible.
§This work was a joint endeavour between Defence Support within
Strategic Command, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO)
and Front Line Commands (FLC), delivered in partnership with
industry experts, GeoPura.
GeoPura's Chief Hydrogen Business Officer, Matt Barney,
said:
GeoPura HPUs and supply of green hydrogen provide a seamless
solution to these challenges. By harnessing the power of green
hydrogen, our generators ensure rapid charging with zero harmful
emissions, completely unrestricted by grid limitations. This not
only facilitates the widespread adoption of EVs but also
contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Hydrogen is just one of the ways Defence might be able to manage
electric vehicles in the future. Defence Support are now
expanding the trials across other Defence sites and are working
with partners, such as DIO, to consider how Defence can use
hydrogen in other ways.
