British Gas introduce hydrogen-powered van trials

British Gas is piloting the use of a hydrogen-powered van to help decarbonise their fleet, marking a significant step in their commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.* 

The partnership with Ryze Power, the suppliers of clean hydrogen and alternative fuels and energy, will provide British Gas with access to the green hydrogen to power the Vauxhall Vivaro van over the two-month trial. The van is being put through its paces by a British Gas engineer in Birmingham, accessing Ryze’s refueling station at Tyseley during their working day.  

The journey to Centrica, parent company of British Gas, reaching its 2040 net zero target includes achieving a net zero fleet by 2030, which is where this initiative supports the business in its vital next steps. Water vapour is the only emissions from the hydrogen vans, which include a battery a fraction of the size of that in an EV, meaning less requirement for mining precious metals.  

Rob Simister, Director of Fleet, comments on Centrica’s commitment to the roll out of hydrogen-powered vans:  

“We are fully committed to the electrification of our fleet and we continue to invest in battery electric vehicles, as they will always be part of our net zero fleet mix. However, we see a time when hydrogen could play a role too, especially for engineers who don’t have easy access to charging options. When fully available and with the refuelling network to support it, operating hydrogen vans is much the same as a diesel, allowing our engineers to fill up in minutes and spend their time where it matters most, helping our customers.” 

Alex Webster, Sales Director at Ryze, comments on the partnership between Ryze and Centrica during the trial:  

“The hydrogen network is still in its infancy, but facilities like our Tyseley refueling station provide a blueprint for local green hydrogen production. We are already powering local buses in Birmingham, so there is no reason why we can’t support British Gas and other operators of large fleets on their journey to electrification, vital to the delivery of net zero.” 

You can find further information about Centrica’s 2040 net zero target here - Net Zero Centrica