Planned to be developed at Exelby Services’ Coneygarth and Golden Fleece service locations, along the A1(M) and M6 motorways respectively, it is hoped to offer a low-carbon fuelling option to serve the north of England.

The partners have said the Yorkshire and Cumbria sites will become the first public service stations in the UK to provide hydrogen refuelling services for hydrogen-powered HGVs.

With sustainability in mind, Element 2 has said sustainability has been a key focus in the concept design focus, with plans to use locally sources materials, water recycling, and deploy wind turbines to power the site’s electricity requirements.

Time Harper, CEO of Element 2, said, “This partnership is a pivotal moment in bringing hydrogen refuelling to the UK’s roads. Together with our forward-looking partner Exelby, we will provide a turnkey solution for refuelling hydrogen HGVs on key haulage routes in the North of England.

“We’re building the UK’s network of hydrogen refuelling stations in response to growing demand from fleet owners and operators as they accelerate the transition of their HGV fleets to zero emissions, which will be critical in helping the UK meet its zero carbon targets.”

H2 View understands that Element 2 is set to deploy the hydrogen refuelling infrastructure at the sites, including tanker supply, storage compression and dispensing, with Exelby expected to provide logistical and technical support during the planning and scoping phases.

The news comes a day on from the UK Government’s announcement of further hydrogen funding to supporting the move away from fossil fuel use.

Read more: UK Government reveal further hydrogen funding and its first Hydrogen Champion

Rob Exelby, Managing Director of Exelby Services, commented, “Following the ever-increasing global focus on tackling climate change, now is the time to be proactive and embrace low and zero carbon alternatives to diesel drivetrains.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Element 2 who have shown a great understanding in how existing fuelling networks operate, and with their expertise we can implement hydrogen refuelling on our existing service areas to offer a one-stop-shop for all road users as we transition to Net Zero.”