Massive hydrogen fuel project launches in Europe

H2ME project aims to deploy fuel cell vehicles and build infrastructure throughout Europe

A pan-European partnership has been formed to promote the widespread use of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with fuel cells that produce electrical power through the consumption of hydrogen. The only byproduct of this is the generation of oxygen and water vapor. The endeavor is called the Hydrogen Mobility Europe (H2ME) and has the backing of several organizations that have an interest in hydrogen fuel cell technology as well as countries that are supporting clean transportation.

Project has the backing of several countries and organizations supporting fuel cell technology

H2ME has received strong financial support from the several countries that it has pulled together, as well as more than $30 million from the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. The project will oversee the deployment of some 200 fuel cell vehicles, as well as 125 electric vans that are equipped with fuel cells to extend their operational range. Another 29 hydrogen fuel stations will be built throughout Europe by 2019. These fueling stations will serve to bolster the hydrogen infrastructure that is taking form in Europe.

Fuel cell vehicles will need infrastructure support to find success with consumers

Fuel cell vehicles have yet to see widespread commercial release, but several automakers have plans to bring these vehicles to the European market in the coming years. European governments have been showing support for hydrogen fuel cells as they can lead to a cleaner future for transportation. The problem, however, is the lack of a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure. Without the needed fueling stations, these vehicles may not find success among consumers.

ITM Power to participate in H2ME project in the UK

The initial launch of H2ME will focus on Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom. ITM Power, a leading developer of hydrogen fuel cells, will be taking part of the project in the United Kingdom. Doctor Rachel Smith, executive director of ITM Power, noted that the aim of the project is to “demystify” the role that hydrogen can play in transportation.