Decentralized polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzer technology could address the lack of hydrogen (H₂) refilling stations across Europe ahead of the deadline to end fossil fuel truck sales by 2040.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has urged the UK Government to set out plans for HGV hydrogen refilling stations, as the logistics and transportation sectors strive to cut emissions in line with net zero targets. Claiming decarbonization as ‘impossible’ for most operators without public investment in infrastructure, the SMMT is concerned that the deadline will be missed without immediate action.

According to engineering specialists at IMI Critical Engineering, the development and uptake of PEM electrolyzer technology could bridge the gap between the current lack of H₂ refilling stations and future fleet decarbonization. Specifically, the company is highlighting the importance of decentralized solutions that produce green H₂ onsite at logistics and transportation firm depots.

“Transitioning HGVs to sustainable fuels will be crucial to ensuring the UK’s and Europe’s logistics and transportation industries hit key emissions and decarbonisation targets,” says Jackie Hu, Divisional Managing Director for IMI Critical Engineering. “The SMMT is right to voice its concerns about a lack of hydrogen refilling stations, which is being echoed in other European markets. However, regardless of insufficient infrastructure, immediate solutions must be found to ensure the sector can make the change as smoothly as possible.

“Deploying small, turnkey electrolyzer solutions that draw power from green energy sources at fleet depots and business premises could, therefore, be a vital first step for organizations looking to use hydrogen for power-to-mobility purposes. Combined with other onsite equipment, such as low-pressure buffer tanks for storage and high-pressure compressors required for refueling, these solutions could help alleviate the sector’s concerns.”

The IMI VIVO PEM electrolyzer, which produces green H₂ from renewable sources such as solar and wind power, has been designed for organizations with power demands between 100 kW and 5 MW that may fall below the threshold for larger solutions in the market. According to Mr. Hu, this smaller size, alongside IMI Critical Engineering’s technical expertise in developing and providing ancillary equipment, makes it well-placed for businesses looking to implement H₂ into their energy mix and ongoing operations.

“Hydrogen is going to play a crucial role in the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, and electrolyzer technology will be key to this,” Mr. Hu adds. “It cannot be denied that there are challenges ahead when it comes to decarbonizing the HGV and logistics sector, which is why businesses must seek out suppliers who can assist with these efforts.

“As regulations become stricter in the UK and Europe, businesses must adopt greener practices. IMI Critical Engineering can help by providing low-pressure hydrogen storage technology and smaller electrolyzers. This partnership can give proactive organizations a competitive advantage by securing their hydrogen supply and lead the way towards a better world.”