Transit managers around the world are beginning to realize the necessity for implementing zero emission technology in their fleets. Are you one of them? Hydrogen fuel cells, in particular, have a clear and demonstrated value for public transport operators.
However, the uncertainty around the transition from diesel-powered to zero emission buses can stand in the way of many operators' clean energy goals. Like any major policy shift, the switch can feel intimidating.
Although fuel cell technology has been around for years, transit operators can still feel like implementation costs are an obstacle to fully embracing the technology.
Those costs, however, are now lower than they have ever been. Fuel cell costs have decreased by 50 percent in the last ten years. Here are some other trends that will also influence cost reduction:
As an additional incentive, many transit operators can rely on public funding. The European Union offers such incentives, and has already funded a number of Fuel Cell Bus projects across Europe.
This is good news for regions like Scandinavia, who have committed to a swift and significant reduction in fossil fuel use over the next few decades.
As local mandates concerning emissions become more common, the need to switch to fuel cell electric buses will only increase. Transit operators who make the switch now obtain these benefits:
Take a look at these municipalities, who are already running zero emission fleets:
Solutions for cost efficient implementation exist. As SARTA CEO Kirt Conrad points out:
“The technology for fuel cell electric buses is pretty solid and agencies should not be afraid of it. The manufacturers have also clearly demonstrated the technology is viable and commercially applicable.”
As time goes on, the costs and consequences of continuing to use fossil fuel vehicles will rise. At the same time, zero emission hydrogen fuel cells will become more widespread.
However, the cost of waiting to implement this technology can be significant.
Transit operators who make the switch now can avoid air quality issues and their associated health costs. Traffic congestion and the need for road repairs also decrease after implementation.
Sunline Transit CEO Lauren Skiver makes the incentive to adopt this technology clear:
“Certainly there are the costs of the systems and buses, but there are funding opportunities to help offset them. The more miles we put on the fuel cell buses, the more data we have to evaluate on technology reliance and performance. This information helps validate our commitment to zero emission and, in turn, supports the funding requests we submit.”
Another important benefit is that disadvantaged communities in urban areas will benefit from a clean transit solution. They will have more access to jobs, education, and health care, with no additional pollution being released into their communities.
For transit operators, now is the best time to act. Find out which funding sources are available for your particular agency. Get in touch with other transit operators who have already deployed zero emission buses, and learn from how they did it.
Finally, realize that the costs of not acting now are higher than those of making the switch.
Don't miss your chance to be an inspiration to people around the world!