IN THE RUSH TO EMBRACE EVs and hybrids, it seems hydrogen, once the great white hope for alternate fuels, has almost been forgotten.
It was more than 10 years ago that seniordriveraus first sampled a hydrogen-powered vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz that was being taken around the world to demonstrate the potential of this fuel that produces nothing from the exhaust pipe but water.
Now, the Australian government has committed $300 million through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to hydrogen energy projects.
Toyota Australia, which has never lost faith in the fuel, has welcomed the announcement.
The company’s future technologies spokesman Matt MacLeod said investment by government was vital for developing Australia’s emerging hydrogen sector and enhancing its ability to contribute to lower emissions.
“Toyota welcomes initiatives designed to build demand in Australia for hydrogen as a viable energy storage medium, including fuel supporting zero-emission transport,” Mr MacLeod said.
“Government investment will also play a significant role in the broader energy economy by supporting long-term sustainable hydrogen production, building supply chains and creating hydrogen hubs,” he said.
“Toyota’s ability to launch advanced vehicles in Australia such as the Mirai fuel-cell electric car – a hydrogen-powered sedan that emits only water vapor – depends on the development of an adequate refuelling infrastructure.”
Mr MacLeod said Toyota Australia was committed to helping develop and promote the hydrogen economy with its own significant investments.
These include a $7.4 million hydrogen centre in Melbourne, supported by $3.1 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
“This project will deliver Victoria’s first commercial-grade hydrogen refuelling station by the end of this year and will be supported by a sustainable hydrogen production and storage facility.
“An education centre at the site, which has just been completed, will provide information that demonstrates the opportunity for hydrogen to meet the energy needs of our society in the not-too-distant future.”
Toyota has also expanded its renewable solar-energy capacity at three key properties in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. It will soon commission an additional solar system to support its hydrogen centre.