Question 1

Where does it come from?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen is one of the most abundant elements on earth, but it is rarely found by itself in a natural state.  It is an odourless, colourless gas.  The gas we use is currently manufactured by BOC Ltd by reforming natural gas.

Question 2

Is hydrogen safe?

Accepted Answer

Used correctly hydrogen is as safe as any other fuel. It is a very bouyant gas, so any that is released will escape upwards and disperse.  It can be explosive if released in a confined space.  That is why all our equipment is roof mounted and designed for good ventilation.

Question 3

Is it zero carbon?

Accepted Answer

Not yet.  Most hydrogen in the UK is currently made from natural gas, which is a fossil fuel.  However there are a number of companies who are planning to make "green" hydrogen, made by electrolysis of water using renewable power.  The UK Government is supporting the expansion of green hydrogen over the next few years.

Question 4

Is it expensive?

Accepted Answer

Currently hydrogen is about 10 x the price of petrol per kWh of power produced.  However that is not the whole story because generators are not a very efficient means of charging batteries.  The battery charger will adjust the current drawn to float charge the batteries, reducing the generator load to a point where its efficiency is poor.    Ultimately the answer depends on how you value the convenience and other benefits of fuel cell derived power.  There are also plans for hydrogen to fall in price dramatically in the next few years.  As early adopters we will create the demand that will help this to happen.  Hydrogen may not be cheap now, but it will be cheaper in the future.

ABOUT HYDROGEN