Development of a hydrogen fuelling infrastructure in the Northeast U.S.A.

Development of critical selection criteria was undertaken, identifying locations for possible hydrogen refuelling stations depending on population density, demographics and traffic density. This identified suitable locations for the initial installations of refuelling stations when the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicles became commercially available. This was continued through the three time phases to implement an expanding network of refuelling stations to service demand and ensure consumer convenience.As well as identifying refuelling station locations, sourcing of hydrogen which will supply these stations was investigated. The technologies selected for hydrogen production were; steam methane reforming, water electrolysis, and coal or biomass gasification. Existing natural gas, coal and biomass infrastructures were considered for hydrogen generation and supply; whilst additional large wind farms could represent production of hydrogen during off peak hours when electricity demand is low and therefore the price is at its lowest, making it economically attractive.