Hydrogen trial launched at Stansted Airport

Britain’s biggest ever trial of hydrogen vehicles was launched this week at Stansted Airport.

Dubbed HOST – Hydrogen On-Site Trials – the year-long study involves 21 companies, which will be taking delivery of a hydrogen refuelling station and two hydrogen fuelled Transit vans.

The likes of DHL, Center Parcs, Camden Council, Amey, Autoglass, Stansted Airport and UPS will take it in turn testing the technology for a week each.

Speaking at the launch Dr Andy Jefferson, Stansted Airport’s head of health, safety and environment, said: “London Stansted is delighted to be working with ITM Power and launch their ground-breaking Hydrogen On Site Trial project at the airport.

“The primary purpose of the trial for us will be to determine the options of using this technology for our existing airside vehicle fleet.

“The airport’s average air quality is well within the EU limits but we’re always keen to seek and explore new opportunities that will further reduce our emissions and our carbon footprint.

“This project with ITM Power is just part of the on-going work to reduce the environmental impact of operations at the airport.”

The trial is being organised by ITM Power and features its HFuel station, and the company will be revealing its findings in 2012.

See the next edition of Fleet News for the full story.