To address the growing concern over the lack of hydrogen refilling stations across Europe, decentralised polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyser technology is emerging as a potential solution, crucial for meeting the deadline to end fossil fuel truck sales by 2040.
Engineering specialists at IMI Critical Engineering have highlighted the significance of decentralised solutions, utilizing PEM electrolyser technology to bridge the current gap in hydrogen refilling stations and facilitate future fleet decarbonisation. Specifically, the company emphasizes the importance of on-site green hydrogen production at logistics and transportation depots.
Jackie Hu, Divisional Managing Director for IMI Critical Engineering, stated the crucial role of transitioning HGVs to sustainable fuels in achieving emissions and decarbonisation targets in the UK and Europe. Acknowledging the concerns raised by the SMMT regarding the lack of hydrogen refilling stations recently, Hu emphasized the need for immediate solutions despite insufficient infrastructure.
Hu suggests deploying small, turnkey electrolyser solutions at fleet depots and business premises, drawing power from renewable energy sources, could be a vital initial step for organisations seeking to utilise hydrogen for power-to-mobility purposes. These solutions, combined with other on-site equipment such as low-pressure buffer tanks for storage and high-pressure compressors for refueling, can help alleviate the sector’s concerns.
IMI Critical Engineering offers the IMI VIVO PEM electrolyser, which produces green hydrogen from renewable sources like solar and wind power. Designed for organisations with power demands ranging from 100kW to 5mW, the IMI VIVO PEM electrolyser is well-suited for businesses that may not require larger solutions available in the market. Hu believes that IMI Critical Engineering’s technical expertise in developing and providing ancillary equipment, coupled with the smaller size of their electrolyser, positions them well to assist businesses in implementing hydrogen into their energy mix and ongoing operations.
