Why a gas distribution network trialled an FCEV

Automotive and green energy developer, First Hydrogen, has started one month of vehicle trials with gas distribution network, Wales & West Utilities (WWU).

First Hydrogen‘s hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicle (FCEV) has been designed to meet the needs of fleet operators, such as WWU, who are seeking a zero emissions vehicle that can manage long distances, carry heavy payloads and tow, with fast refuelling. First Hydrogen’s FCEV achieves more than 630km or 400 miles on a single refuelling.

WWU is the gas emergency and pipeline service for Wales and the south west of England and operates 24 hours a day, year-round to deliver vital gas network services for more than 7.5 million customers. The First Hydrogen trials are taking place during winter, WWU’s busiest period for emergency gas call outs. Typically, cold temperatures can reduce the range for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), affecting reliability for fleet operators. Depending on the weather over the next month, the trials could also generate data to indicate the FCEV’s advantage over BEVs in lower temperatures.

The trials commenced with training for WWU’s drivers, enabling them to safely operate the vehicle and understand its technical differences. While completing First Hydrogen’s driver training accreditation scheme, WWU’s technicians performed manoeuvres with the vehicle and completed a call out to a customer’s residence. Importantly, they also practised refuelling the vehicle with green hydrogen, supplied by Protium Green Solutions, at Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions’ refuelling unit. Both organisations have helped to develop a hydrogen ecosystem to support First Hydrogen’s trial with WWU.

Steve Gill, executive director automotive at First Hydrogen, said: “It is great to see Wales & West Utilities’ enthusiasm to start trials and we are eager for them to test the vehicle within routine fleet operations. Our FCEV has clear benefits for utility businesses, such as WWU, and we’re keen to generate performance data during the trial that will further demonstrate how our vehicles can help decarbonise similar fleets.”