The Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) in Hong Kong has announced the approval of three additional trial projects on hydrogen fuel technology.
Led by the Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel, these projects aim to explore the feasibility and potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source. The approved applications include a hydrogen refueling station, a hydrogen-fueled light rail vehicle (LRV) test run, and the use of a hydrogen tube trailer for delivery.
According to the EEB, the Working Group carefully examined and provided advice on the applications received from Sinopec (Hong Kong) Limited, MTR Corporation Limited, and Linde HKO Limited. After incorporating enhancements to ensure the safe and smooth implementation of the projects, agreement-in-principle was granted during the June 7 meeting of the Working Group. The trial projects are scheduled to commence in mid-2024 and the second half of 2024.
These three projects add to the initial batch of three applications approved on March 28, bringing the total number of approved trial projects to six. The Working Group will closely monitor the progress of these projects while continuing to assess other applications. The government aims to gather valuable data and experiences from these trials to prepare for the local application and provision of supporting facilities in the future.
Additionally, the government plans to initiate trials of hydrogen fuel cell heavy vehicles for street cleaning in the coming year. Consultancy studies on technical guidelines, a hydrogen fuel system, a hydrogen refueling station, and quantitative risk assessment are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The government will also engage a consultant to study amendments to the Gas Safety Ordinance to cover hydrogen fuel and conduct a business impact assessment.
Looking ahead, the EEB emphasized the importance of monitoring the development of other new energy transport technologies and aligning with global advancements. By 2025, the government aims to announce a roadmap for promoting electric public transport and commercial vehicles. Long-term strategies for the application of hydrogen energy in land transport will also be formulated, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero vehicular emissions in Hong Kong by 2050.
The collaborative efforts of multiple government departments, including the Transport and Logistics Bureau, Development Bureau, Security Bureau, and various operational departments, demonstrate Hong Kong’s commitment to embracing clean and sustainable energy solutions.
