Hy2Market - Development and testing of mobility solutions

The Hy2Market project was submitted as good practice by the UNLOCK project and focuses on reducing CO2 emissions. In Médio Tejo region, transports are responsible for 38% of GEE, making it the largest contributor to all emissions. Following the closure of the Pego Power Plant in 2021, the region committed to transitioning from a fossil fuel-based economy to a circular, carbon-neutral society.

The Hy2Market project envisioned creating a green hydrogen market in Europe by boosting hydrogen production, transport, and use.  As part of the initiative, a hydrogen-powered bus was piloted in the region, traveling 200 km daily over nine months. Several routes were selected, including those involving student transportation as young people are key to spreading awareness. In total, the bus covered 30,769 km, and used 2,095 kg of hydrogen, saving 10,769 liters of diesel.

The project, co-funded by the EU, involved collaboration between local governments, bus manufacturers, and the community, and it raised public awareness through media and outreach activities.

The project was validated by a thematic expert, and their opinion is featured here:

Hydrogen vehicles have a high potential for reducing the emissions of the transport sector, but challenges remain in rolling out infrastructure and gaining acceptance amongst end-users. Pilot projects such as this are a good starting point for introducing new technologies into a region, helping users to get used to the technology and overcome scepticism related to performance in actual conditions. In this case, the benefit is clear for the local public transport company, which has committed to renewing its fleet with new hydrogen vehicles. Public authorities looking to introduce new hydrogen vehicles can follow a similar approach of piloting and monitoring to show true potential and performance before major investments are launched.