A NEW study has identified Bridgwater as an effective location for hydrogen refuelling stations.

The study, commissioned by Hydrogen South West, sets out an early blueprint of the refuelling infrastructure needed in the region to meet commercial hydrogen vehicle fleets in the region by 2030. 

Research for the study was undertaken by multi-disciplinary professional services consulting firm WSP. It investigated potential market demand for hydrogen as a transport fuel for utilities, logistics, freight and passenger fleets such as light goods vehicles, heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches. 

The findings suggest that by 2030, 7,000 vehicles - a 2% uptake - could be running on hydrogen in the region, which would require up to 88 tonnes of hydrogen per day to support their operations. Along with Bridgwater, other regional locations - including Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth and South West Cornwall - have been identified as critical hydrogen refuelling locations.

Andy Clarke, Chair of Hydrogen South West, said: "The decarbonisation needs of the South West are very different to those of the rest of England. This largely rural region relies heavily on its roads to get people, goods and services to where they need to be, and our members consistently report that the refuelling needs of their vehicle fleets, which are predominantly light goods vehicles, cannot be met by battery electric technology."

He continued: "This is due to a range of factors, including journey pattern and length, payload and topography, challenges for which hydrogen is a far more effective solution"

Stuart Cory, UK Sector Lead, Oil, Gas and Energy Transition at WSP said: "We are delighted to deliver this assessment for the role of hydrogen in support of low carbon land transportation in the region. By presenting a clear view of the potential regional demand, we hope this study provides both a baseline and the vital foundations to build from."

He added: "Together with Hydrogen South West members, we’re now exploring the next steps to build on this assessment and support the development of an ecosystem that includes hydrogen refuelling clusters at strategic locations aligned to the existing M5-A38-A30 corridor and close to projects such as Dorset Green H2, Exeter H2 Hub, HyHaul and Langage Green."

Hydrogen South West, which commissioned the study, is a partnership of regional businesses and innovators driving the development hydrogen infrastructure and technology. It is comprised of leading brands, including easyJet, Airbus and EDF; industrial heavyweights GKN; consultants and engineers Costain and WSP; and Bristol Port, Bristol Airport, Wales and West Utilities and Wessex Water.