New schemes aim to fuel airport and supermarket delivery vehicles with hydrogen as part of a £8 million green energy push.
Two pioneering transport projects in Tees Valley are set to boost the use of hydrogen-powered vehicles, including those used in supermarket deliveries and airport ground support services. The Government has allocated part of an £8 million funding package to the region’s hydrogen transport hub to support the transition to green energy.
One of the projects, led by low-emission transport company ULEMCo, will focus on creating hydrogen-powered ground support vehicles at Teesside International Airport. These vehicles, such as tow trucks for planes and sweepers for runway maintenance, will reduce emissions in the aviation sector.
As part of the initiative, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced that four new hydrogen refuelling stations will be built. These stations will not only fuel the airport vehicles but also heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), including supermarket delivery trucks, helping to decarbonise the transport industry in the region.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper highlighted the potential of hydrogen technology to decarbonise transport and stimulate economic growth. He said, “Today’s winners showcase Tees Valley’s expertise as a leader in hydrogen technology. This investment will create skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the North East.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added, “We were one of the first areas to trial hydrogen fuels, and this continued success has helped secure a permanent refuelling station for the region.”
The announcement comes amid increasing criticism of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s plans to expand the UK’s oil and gas reserves, with climate advocates warning against continued fossil fuel reliance.
