Ricardo to collaborate with South Australian Hydrogen Hubs Inc (SA-H2H™) to undertake a feasibility study into hydrogen technology retrofitting as a decarbonisation pathway for heavy duty vehicles in South Australia

South Australia is a leading player in the emerging sustainable hydrogen industry, with the South Australian Government funding one of the largest green hydrogen electrolysers in the world and establishing a precinct at Whyalla, located close to some of the state’s prime solar and wind assets for industrial-scale green hydrogen production

However, it also faces two distinct challenges: how this hydrogen industry can be nurtured towards making significant decarbonisation progress, and how to support long-term skilled ‘green’ jobs in the region

SA-H2H™ is delivering two projects to address these challenges. The first, centred around hydrogen mobile refuelling, is underway. The second is a hydrogen retrofitting programme for heavy vehicles, with the first phase feasibility study to be lead by Ricardo

Australia’s decarbonisation journey-

Given Australia’s dependence on its agriculture, mining and freight industries to maintain its economic prosperity – as well as the vast distances between communities and its relatively low population – heavy vehicles that support these sectors need affordable decarbonisation pathways to enable Australia to meet national net zero targets. The feasibility study will present a significant step in the nation’s decarbonisation journey

Additionally, because South Australia is soon to become a significant producer of hydrogen through government or industry projects in construction or development, the feasibility study will also support regional authorities’ understanding of the opportunities for local use of hydrogen for mobility, and the potential for the creation of long-term local jobs which support industries’ access to, and use of, hydrogen to make Australia cleaner, more sustainable, and less reliant on imported fuel sources

Industry collaboration-

The feasibility study will leverage Ricardo’s proven expertise in innovating and safely implementing hydrogen technology in light vehicles, heavy vehicles, trains, planes and ships, combined with capability in local delivery

Ricardo has provided specialist support to the South Australia Government in the early phases of its Hydrogen Jobs Program (HJP) and, through the Australia-based team, have been active members of SA-H2H™ for the past three years