Defence Support has launched the first of three hydrogen-fuelled charging facilities to power Front-Line Command electric fleet vehicles supporting defence’s transition to net zero.
The hydrogen power units (HPUs) are being trialled at RAF Leeming, HMNB DEVONPORT and at the Army’s Merville Barracks, Colchester.
Trialling the use of hydrogen as an energy source is an important step in Defence’s transition to a fleet which is zero-emissions at the tailpipe by the end of December 2027.
Air Vice Marshal Richard Hill, Director Defence Support Major Programmes, said: “Working with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), and the three Services, this trial will further our understanding of hydrogen’s place in Defence’s future energy mix. Using hydrogen to power some of our white fleet electric vehicles is a significant step forward in accessing a broader range of sustainable energy sources. This will provide resilience and mobility in off-grid and compromised-supply locations.
RAF Leeming Station Commander, Group Captain Gareth Prendergast said: “It is fantastic to be part of the Defence Support programme exploring the use of hydrogen and how it may support Defence capabilities in the future. The GeoPura system allows us to demonstrate the concept here at RAF Leeming and understand how it can increase resiliency on our bases and influence operations at home and overseas.”
The trial, which is being delivered in support of the Sustainable Road Transport (SRT) programme, focuses on hydrogen as a source of fuel. It is just one of the ways Defence might be able to manage electric vehicles in the future. The Defence Support organisation will also be exploring further options, including how Defence can use hydrogen in other ways, such as fully hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Air Commodore Ange Baker, Defence Support organisation’s Head Support Futures and Operational Energy Authority, said: “It is an important step to start this trial for rapid recharging of our electric car fleet. Not only does this look at supporting the existing charging network and our electric car fleet, but is also part of the wider work to examine future energy options for military use and to start configuring Defence for the global energy transition.
Image: Defence Support
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