The NSW Government is transitioning its fleet to zero emission technology as part of its campaign for Zero Emissions by 2050.
The Government is partnering with local and national industry suppliers to test the future fuel source.
Climate Change has become a major issue politically, with the “Teal Army” swooping into Australian life at the Federal Election, on the back of a strong commitment to change.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said the project would help create a thriving green hydrogen industry in NSW.
“Unlocking hydrogen use in the heavy transport sector is key to creating new industries and achieving the economic prosperity that comes with it,” Mr Kean said.
“A green hydrogen industry will encourage NSW investment in clean technology, grow our economy, boost our exports and support regional jobs.”
The project is a partnership with the Department of Planning and Environment, local bus manufacturer ARCC, Central
Coast operator Red Bus and Origin Energy.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said industry was partnering with bus operators to develop trials, to understand how the technology could be implemented across regional NSW.
“Hydrogen buses have a greater range than battery electric buses, which could make them better suited for use in regional and outer metropolitan areas of the state,” Mr Farraway said.
“This trial is the first step towards us getting a better understanding of how hydrogen buses perform in local conditions, as well as the infrastructure needed to support them.
“The results of the battery electric bus trial on the Central Coast will be compared against the hydrogen bus to understand any key differences, including fuel economy and refueling times.
“In some regional areas buses need to travel greater distances before they refuel which is why trials like this are important.”
Managing Director and founder of ARCC Peter Murley said the Australian-owned business was committed to a sustainable, zero-emission transport future.
“Our focus is on helping local and state governments reach zero-emission targets with turnkey transport options that are 100% Australian designed, built and supported,” Mr Murley said.
On-road testing will take place on roads surrounding the development facility at Smithfield before the trial begins.
The first hydrogen fuel cell electric bus is expected to arrive on the Central Coast later this year before starting a local trial of the technology.
