Queenstown could make hydrogen vehicle fuel

Hydrogen has the potential to be a new industry for Queenstown.

Producing hydrogen as an alternative source of energy is identified as a major research and development opportunity for the district, a report commissioned by Queenstown Lakes District Council and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise shows.

Sapere Research Group assessed a number of industries to determine the potential to attract international research and development to the district.

It forms part of a joint search by the council and NZTE for new opportunities to help diversify the local economy, council economic development manager Peter Harris says.

He says the success of the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds for winter automotive testing sparked the research.

“SHPG’s success is outstanding and we were interested to see if there were any other industries that might be attracted here.”

Harris says the report shows hydrogen would likely have the most potential.

“It could be made using hydroelectricity, solar or wind, and would be used as a zero-emission fuel for buses, trucks, cars and vessels. It could ultimately form a new industry in our district.”

Harris says interest has come from members of the New Zealand Hydrogen Association – Real Journeys and H W Richardson Group – to be a part of a pilot.

Hydrogen association chief executive Dr Linda Wright lives in the district and is excited about hydrogen as a zero emission fuel for heavy vehicles.

“Hydrogen has advantages over batteries for long-range trucks and buses,” she says.

“The Southern South Island is the ideal place to make and test renewable hydrogen as a way for the tourism and transport industries to reduce emissions.”

SHPG managing director Tom Elworthy supports the research and says the Ground hosts more than 500 automotive research and development staff each winter, mostly from overseas.

“Not only do we offer them the chance to do winter testing in their summer season, but they love visiting because we are a safe, fun and internationally connected district.”