A hydrogen power trial has successfully introduced and utilised hydrogen on military bases to generate electricity to recharge electric cars and vans using rapid chargers – the first military application of the technology. GeoPura said the trial used green hydrogen-powered generators to charge electric vehicles at RAF Leeming, HMNB Devonport, Merville Barracks Colchester, HMS Excellent Portsmouth and RAF Northolt.
Air Vice-Marshal Rich Pratley, MOD Senior Responsible Owner for the project, said, “This trial has demonstrated the potential of hydrogen as a key enabler of our transition to zero-emissions energy, while also addressing the current challenges posed by our expanding electric vehicle fleet.”
The hydrogen powered generators were able to supplement grid power or operate entirely off grid. Matt Barney, Chief Hydrogen Business Officer at GeoPura, said “By harnessing the power of green hydrogen, our generators ensure rapid charging with zero harmful emissions, completely unrestricted by grid limitations. ”
The generators provided a mix of AC and fast DC charging capabilities, operating at differing charging speeds to align with operational requirements, off grid and supplementing existing grid capacity for long and short term durations over the course of the trial. Around 120,000 miles were driven in vehicles charged via over the course of the trial.