EV transition supported by Ministry of Defence

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Ministry of Defence has recently launched the first of three hydrogen-fuelled charging facilities, according to an announcement by the Defence Support organisation. This initiative aims to power the electric fleet vehicles of the Front-Line Command and will commence with trials at RAF Leeming, Her Majesty's Naval Base DEVONPORT, and the Army's Merville Barracks in Colchester. The project is a crucial step towards achieving a zero-emission fleet by the end of December 2027. Hydrogen is being utilized as an energy source, showcasing the potential of new technology and providing operational advantages.

The trial is part of the Sustainable Road Transport programme, which focuses on exploring the use of hydrogen as a fuel. The Defence Support organisation will also consider additional options for electric vehicles and fully hydrogen-powered vehicles. Major Programmes Director Defence Support, Air Vice Marshall Richard Hill, expressed the significance of this trial in understanding hydrogen's role in the future energy mix of Defence. He emphasized the importance of using hydrogen to power some of the white fleet electric vehicles, as it broadens the range of sustainable energy sources and enhances resilience and mobility in off-grid and compromised-supply locations.

As part of Strategic Command, the Defence Support organisation is dedicated to delivering the necessary energy infrastructure for Defence. Group Captain Gareth Prendergast, RAF Leeming Station Commander, expressed his enthusiasm for being part of the Defence Support programme and exploring the potential of hydrogen in supporting Defence capabilities. The GeoPura system enables them to test the concept at RAF Leeming and understand its ability to enhance resilience on bases and influence operations both domestically and internationally.

Image credit: iStock

FutureCar Staff