Zero emissions energy firm GeoPura and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) have completed a landmark hydrogen power trial which saw battery-electric vehicles (BEV) charged with hydrogen power.
The trial used green hydrogen powered generators (HPU) at five MOD locations to rapidly charge BEVs on site. While this energy solution is being used in the commercial environment, this is the first military application of the technology, marking a significant milestone in advancing alternative energy solutions for the defence sector.
Critical to the success of the trial was the deployment of GeoPura HPUs, which offer a highly reliable, environmentally friendly source of power to support the limitless scaling of rapid electric vehicle (EV) fleet charging infrastructure.
As the adoption of BEVs increases, insufficient grid capacity can impede expanding recharging needs, with the firm believing that HPUs removes these limitations – supplementing available grid power, or operating entirely off grid, enabling the MOD to meet expanding EV charging needs.
The HPUs provided a mix of AC and fast DC charging capabilities, operating at differing charging speeds to align with operational requirements, both completely off grid and supplementing existing grid capacity for long and short term durations over the course of the trial.
GeoPura will use insights gained from the trial to drive ongoing research and development efforts, including the development of smaller, more mobile hydrogen systems suited for shorter deployments, as well as larger, more power-dense systems to meet the diverse needs of the operations both in the UK and abroad.
Air Vice-Marshal Rich Pratley, MOD Senior Responsible Owner for this project, said:
“In embracing innovative solutions like hydrogen power, the Ministry of Defence has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and as the trial has proved, to improving operational efficiency.
“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.”
Matt Barney, Chief Hydrogen Business Officer at GeoPura, said:
“GeoPura HPUs and supply of green hydrogen provide a seamless solution to these challenges.
“By harnessing the power of green hydrogen, our generators ensure rapid charging with zero harmful emissions, completely unrestricted by grid limitations. This not only facilitates the widespread adoption of EVs but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable future for Defence operations on a wider scale. One that protects the health of both its people at the future of the planet.”
Image courtesy of GeoPura
