Hydrogen fuel infrastructure efforts pick up in Japan and Germany

Japan and Germany bolstering their hydrogen fuel infrastructure

As the auto industry shows no signs of abatement concerning its commercialization of hydrogen-powered vehicles, the world’s government are beginning to take the issue of a hydrogen fuel infrastructure more seriously. Countries that do not have a comprehensive hydrogen fuel infrastructure in place are not likely to be considered important markets for automakers, which could have severe economic implications. Japan and Germany are both taking steps to ensure that their hydrogen fuel infrastructure is ready for the commercial launch of a new generation of clean vehicles.

JX Nippon Oil & Energy has plans for new hydrogen stations in Japan

JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp., a leading energy business based in Japan, has announced plans to open 40 new hydrogen fuel stations in its home country by 2015. The company currently owns three of t he ten demonstration hydrogen fuel stations in the country that are open to the public. By the end of February, the company will open two new hydrogen fuel stations that will be attached to existing stations that offer petroleum and diesel. The company is eager to ensure that Japan has an adequate hydrogen fuel infrastructure in plans by 2015, when most of the world’s automakers plan to launch their hydrogen-powered vehicles.

H2 Mobility drafting business model for infrastructure in Germany

The H2 Mobility initiative, a conglomeration of several European companies that specialize in energy, hydrogen fuel, and transportation, is pushing for more progress in Germany. The collective is working to establish a business model that will help Germany bolster its current hydrogen fuel infrastructure. The country already boasts of one of the most expansive infrastructure in the world, but will have to take steps if it wants to secure its place of value with the auto industry. Plans are currently underway concerning several new hydrogen fuel stations that will be located near large cities throughout the country.

Both countries may serve as strong examples for others

Both Japan and Germany have long be strong advocates for hydrogen fuel, especially in terms of transportation. The two countries have served as something of an example to others that have also shown interest in hydrogen fuel. If these countries can successfully built a comprehensive hydrogen fuel infrastructure, they will continue to be popular markets for the auto industry and its continued focus on hydrogen transportation.