It comes after NSW released its hydrogen strategy in October 2021, with ambitions of hydrogen vehicles making up 20% of the NSW Government heavy vehicle fleet, with a total of 10,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles taking to the roads by 2030.
The project is a partnership between the Department of Planning and Environment, local bus manufacturer ARCC, Central Coast operator Red Bus, and Origin Energy, which hopes to understand how the technology could be rollout state-wide.
The state Government hopes the project will boost the green hydrogen industry in NSW.
Matt Kean, NSW Treasurer and Minister for Energy, said, “Unlocking hydrogen use in the heavy transport sector is key to creating new industries and achieving the economic prosperity that comes with it.
“A green hydrogen industry will encourage NSW investment in clean technology, grow our economy, boost our exports and support regional jobs.”
NSW’s hydrogen strategy hopes to bring more than A$80bn ($51bn) of investment to establish the region as a clean energy superpower.
Sam Farraway, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, said, “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.
“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 refuelling times.”
On-road testing will take place on roads surrounding the development facility at Smithfield, Sydney, before the trial begins.
Peter Murley, Managing Director and founder of ARCC, said, “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.”
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