The Government’s $27.7 million Low Emissions Heavy Vehicle Fund (LEHVF) is a “pivotal moment in New Zealand’s transition to emissions-free transport”.
That’s according to Taranaki-based green hydrogen developer Hiringa Energy which is launching the country’s first zero-emission green hydrogen refuelling network to service heavy freight.
“The fund is an important first step for lowering the cost barrier for transport operators to purchase hydrogen vehicles,” Hiringa co-founder Cathy Clennett says.
“It’s also a signal to the market that hydrogen is the future of transport.”
Hiringa has already opened three hydrogen refuelling stations in the North island and a fourth station is set to open before the end of this year with dozens more planned in the years to come.
“The supply of green hydrogen fuel is there, particularly in the North Island, and the next step is to seize the opportunity and get more hydrogen trucks on our roads,” she says.
Chief executive and co-founder Andrew Clennett adds: “Businesses all over the world are increasingly looking to partner with organisations that can decarbonise their supply chains.”
“We’re already seeing the unique advantages of hydrogen trucks on our roads – they can carry full payloads, refuel in minutes and do the same job as diesel, but without the emissions.
“The opportunity for New Zealand to be an early adopter and underline its innovation and sustainability through hydrogen transport is enormous.
“It’s a great start to see these clean vehicles available for funding assistance, and we know there are other hydrogen options available, including hydrogen dual fuel trucks.
“We look forward to seeing these options added to the list soon, furthering the impact of this grant,” he says.
