What is hydrogen?
Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, making up about 75% of the mass of the universe. It rarely exists as a gas on Earth; rather, it is usually present in a compound bonded to other elements. For example, when combined with oxygen, it forms water.
Hydrogen is a colourless, odourless, tasteless and non-toxic gas. When burnt it releases heat. Hydrogen can also be reacted with oxygen electrochemically in a fuel cell to produce heat and electricity.
Hydrogen is potentially one of the most flexible energy solutions available. It could have a role in almost every part of the energy system. If produced in a low carbon way, hydrogen can be used to decarbonise any sector it penetrates.
Why use hydrogen?
Hydrogen offers a solution to decarbonise not only the transport sector but other sectors including industrial processes, power, and buildings. It can be used as a feedstock, a fuel or, an energy carrier and storer. More importantly it emits zero carbon emissions and creates almost no air pollution. There has been a rapid growth and global interest in hydrogen in Europe and around the world. Hydrogen will therefore be essential in supporting Scotland’s effort to reach carbon neutrality while working towards zero pollution.
Why use hydrogen in transport?
Transport is one of the trickiest sectors to decarbonise. Using hydrogen rather than fossil fuels can radically reduce exhaust emissions and other pollutants that damage human health, which helps to meet emissions targets and tackling air pollution.
Hydrogen powered vehicles are excellent for long distance use, in rural settings, and with vehicles that carry significant loads.
For further information please see our North East Scotland Fleet Review.
What is a fuel cell?
A fuel cell generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction. In a fuel cell, hydrogen and oxygen are combined to produce electricity, as well as heat and water. There are many ways in which fuel cell technology can be used, for instance, providing power to homes; ensuring critical facilities like hospitals run continuously, generators; and in transport such as the cars, buses and trucks.
Fuel cell systems are a clean, efficient, reliable, and quiet source of power. Fuel cells do not need to be recharged like batteries, but instead continue to produce electricity for as long as fuel is present.
How do I get Hydrogen in Aberdeen?
To access hydrogen in Aberdeen you will need to create an a account by emailing h2aberdeen@aberdeencity.gov.uk and providing the following details:
- Name of customer (fob registered to this name)
- Customer or invoice address
- Customer telephone number
- Customer e-mail address
- Vehicle registration
- Driver name
- Driver contact details
- Rating and capacity on the vehicle hydrogen tank (eg: 350Bar, 6kg)
- Vehicle type
The hydrogen in Aberdeen is created onsite via electrolysis. The electricity used in this process is off a green tariff, so it is green hydrogen - meaning no emissions from well to wheel.
Refuelling stations available in Aberdeen:
- Aberdeen City Hydrogen Energy Storage (ACHES) - the council owned station in Cove
- Kittybrewster station, which is owned and operated by BOC
Payment for fuel is currently via a monthly invoice. A fob is provided to use at the ACHES station together with a driver code and a payment card is provided for use at the Kittybrewster station, also with a driver code.
What hydrogen vehicles are available in the UK?
In Aberdeen we have several sizes and styles of vehicles, more information of which can be found in our educational booklet.
Aberdeen City Council has deployed electric vehicles that have had their range extended with a fuel cell, this service is offered by Ballard and ULEMCo
Fuel cell cars are available in the UK, in Aberdeen we have deployed Toyota Mirai, and Hyundai Nexo.
Our fuel cell waste truck is Geesinknorba with Hyzon technology.
The buses in Aberdeen are Wrightbus.
How far can I travel from Aberdeen in hydrogen car?
The range of a Toyota Mirai is around 300 miles and the range of a Hyundai Nexo is around 400 miles.
