Monday, March 4, 2024
Collaborative Trial: Air New Zealand, Wellington Airport, Toyota New Zealand, and Hiringa Energy to Test Hydrogen Charging for Airline Vehicles at Wellington Airport
Jacob Snelgrove, Air New Zealand’s Senior Sustainability Manager, Aims to Lead the Way in Green Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft Deployment in New Zealand
“Green hydrogen is starting to be used around the world as a low-emission fuel for buses, trucks, trains, and boats. Aircraft are the logical next step and successful test flights are already underway overseas. The biggest challenge here in New Zealand, is setting up the supply, transport and infrastructure to support fuelling the aircraft. This trial is an important first step to enable the development of that system.”
“This is the first-time hydrogen has been used at an airport in New Zealand and is an important step on the long-term journey to decarbonise aviation,” says Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke.
“The trial will help us assess the viability of hydrogen for charging and give us a good insight into the operational challenges and opportunities.”
The trial will utilize a hydrogen fuel cell supplied by Toyota New Zealand, which converts hydrogen into electricity. The hydrogen supply will be managed by Hiringa Energy, a local clean energy firm based in New Zealand.
“It’s a privilege to be supporting Air New Zealand and Wellington Airport in demonstrating the safe use of hydrogen for use in aviation, says Hiringa Energy Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Clennett.
“Green hydrogen has a significant role to play in decarbonising Aotearoa, and this programme is helping everyone to better understand the benefits of introducing hydrogen to airport operations as we prepare for hydrogen-powered aircraft in the future.”
Neeraj Lala, Chief Executive of Toyota New Zealand, highlights that the company’s unveiling of its hydrogen fuel cell generator at Wellington Airport perfectly corresponds with its strategic direction.
“We are passionate about advancing the hydrogen economy in New Zealand by introducing innovative new technology that supports our decarbonisation ambition.”
“By showcasing innovative solutions like the fuel cell generator in practical applications such as aviation, we can stimulate demand and demonstrate the viability and benefits of hydrogen technology, ultimately paving the way for broader adoption and investment in hydrogen across various sectors of the New Zealand economy.”
“Our Toyota Fuel Cell Generators will now provide companies serious about climate with a genuine clean energy alternative,” says Neeraj.
The trial commences today and is scheduled to continue until March 15th.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
