How an HRS works

Overview

To be suitable to be used as a fuel, the hydrogen gas (H2) is compressed at about 350-700 bars pressure via advanced mechanism on site and is then distributed via a dispenser similar to the ones used in petrol stations. Industrial gas companies have developed hydrogen fuel dispensing systems that are safe and user-friendly and international standards to ensure compatibility between all refuelling stations and vehicles.

Currently, hydrogen is often delivered to the fuelling location in the same way as it is distributed to industry: in pressurised tanks on lorries. However, at suitable sites hydrogen can be produced on-site by electrolysis, in the best case with the aid of renewable electricity obtained via direct coupling (wind/solar), or through grid-balancing services. Both off-site production (delivery) and on-site production were employed under H2ME.

A Hydrogen Refuelling Station

On-site Production

The diagram below highlights how hydrogen can be made without any fossil fuels in the production and delivery of the fuel, as it is made on-site. Renewable Energy and excess electricity from the grid is used, along with water to generate hydrogen and oxygen gas via the electrolyser. The hydrogen gas is stored and then used to refuel fuel cell electric vehicles.

flow-chart