Surrey Leads the Way in Hydrogen-Powered Public Transport to Achieve Net Zero
Surrey County Council is stepping up its commitment to zero-emission public transport by introducing 34 new hydrogen-powered buses to its fleet. These 23 single-decker and 11 double-decker buses, equipped with a 600-mile range and producing zero emissions, will operate on key routes across Salfords, Horley, Gatwick Airport, Crawley, Merstham, Redhill, Reigate, Woodhatch, and East Surrey Hospital. This latest initiative, part of a £16 million investment, marks a significant milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and improve air quality.
This hydrogen bus rollout follows the introduction of 20 hydrogen buses in the Horley, Gatwick, and Crawley areas in 2023. The buses are built by UK manufacturer Wrightbus and operated by Metrobus. The vehicles are powered by green hydrogen, derived from renewable sources, meaning they not only produce zero emissions but are also fuelled in a way that aligns with the UK's broader goal of sustainability.
Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport, and Economic Growth, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasising the council’s dedication to cleaner air and sustainable travel. "This is fantastic news not just for the people of Surrey, but for everyone travelling through our county," said Furniss. "These buses will play a crucial role in reducing emissions and making Surrey a cleaner, greener place to live."
The council’s investment extends beyond hydrogen buses. Furniss highlighted further financial commitments, including £6.3 million for more ultra-low and zero-emission community transport minibuses, £9 million in bus priority measures to improve punctuality, and £1.4 million for better information systems at bus stops. These improvements are designed to modernise Surrey's public transport network and encourage residents to switch from car travel to more sustainable options.
Passengers on these new hydrogen buses will not only be contributing to a cleaner environment, but they will also benefit from enhanced comfort and convenience. The buses offer free Wi-Fi, charging points, and ‘social seating,’ creating a more enjoyable and eco-friendly travel experience. Popular routes like the Fastway 100, connecting Redhill to Gatwick Airport, and Routes 430 and 435, covering areas such as Merstham and East Surrey Hospital, will be among the first to feature the new buses.
By the winter season, 11 double-decker hydrogen buses will also be introduced, covering routes like 420, 460, and 480, which connect Epsom, Reigate, and Gatwick Airport. These new buses represent not only a technological upgrade but also a strategic move towards expanding zero-emission travel options across the county.
Ed Wills, Managing Director of Metrobus, underscored the significance of the hydrogen bus initiative, stating, “This is an excellent example of partnership working where together we can make zero emissions a sustainable reality today for the communities we serve.” He also praised the collaboration between Metrobus and Surrey County Council, highlighting how teamwork can lead to significant progress in the fight against climate change.
The importance of hydrogen technology in achieving net zero cannot be overstated. As countries around the world strive to meet ambitious climate targets, hydrogen has emerged as a key player in the energy transition. Unlike traditional diesel or petrol-powered vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells produce no harmful emissions; the only byproduct is water. This makes hydrogen a game-changer in the transport sector, particularly for public transport systems that are used by millions of people daily.
In addition to its environmental benefits, hydrogen offers several practical advantages. With a 600-mile range, the new buses are capable of covering long distances without frequent refuelling, making them ideal for routes with high passenger demand. Moreover, hydrogen can be produced locally from renewable energy sources like wind or solar power, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
Surrey’s hydrogen bus project is part of a broader vision to create a net-zero transportation system. As governments and local authorities look for solutions to combat climate change, hydrogen is gaining momentum as a vital component in the transition to cleaner energy. Surrey’s investment in hydrogen buses is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about demonstrating that sustainable travel is possible today.
By investing in hydrogen-powered transport, Surrey is positioning itself as a leader in the race to net zero. With cleaner air, quieter streets, and more efficient public transport, the county is setting an example for others to follow. The introduction of these hydrogen buses signals a bold step forward in the global effort to create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
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