China’s transition towards a more sustainable, low-carbon economy has received a significant boost with the recent implementation of new policies to support the development of the hydrogen energy sector. These policies, introduced by Chinese authorities, are aimed at diversifying approaches towards achieving a greener future for the country.
**Supportive Measures for Hydrogen-Powered Vehicles**
In a groundbreaking move, authorities in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province announced at the second Western Hydrogen Energy Expo that they will fully exempt hydrogen-powered vehicles equipped with ETC devices from expressway tolls. This policy, set to take effect on September 1 and last for three years, is a crucial step towards incentivizing the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles in the region. Additionally, subsidies will be offered to facilitate the construction of hydrogen refueling stations on expressways, further promoting the use of this clean energy source.
Shaanxi Province joins other regions in China that have already implemented similar supportive measures for hydrogen-powered vehicles. In March of this year, Shandong Province in east China became the first to waive toll fees for such vehicles, setting a precedent for others to follow. Subsequently, Sichuan and Inner Mongolia’s Ordos also adopted toll waivers for hydrogen-powered vehicles, signaling a growing trend towards promoting the commercial operation of fuel-cell vehicles.
**Impact on the Industry**
The cost of purchasing and operating fuel-cell vehicles is currently high, making it crucial for both technological advancements and government support to drive down costs. According to Liu Jianguo, head of the hydrogen energy science and engineering department at North China Electric Power University, active government guidance and nurturing are essential for the rapid development of the hydrogen energy industry. Liu highlighted the promising potential of heavy-duty trucks powered by fuel cells and emphasized that reducing or eliminating tolls on expressways can significantly lower the total cost of using these trucks over time. This cost reduction will make it more feasible to introduce more fuel-cell vehicles, thereby boosting the entire industry.
The China automotive strategy and policy research center has conducted calculations indicating that a 49-tonne fuel-cell truck currently costs about 20 percent more to operate than a similar diesel truck. However, with the waiver of expressway tolls, the operating cost could potentially decrease by 25 percent. This reduction in operating costs is expected to have a significant impact on the industry, driving further adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
**Economic Benefits of Toll Waivers**
The blue book on China’s hydrogen-powered vehicles reveals that the current toll for heavy-duty trucks on expressways is approximately 2.6 yuan per kilometer. Assuming a truck operates 300 days a year at 800 kilometers per day, it would consume about 24 tonnes of hydrogen annually and incur tolls of roughly 600,000 yuan. By adding 100 more fuel-cell trucks to the fleet, nearly 300 million yuan in industrial chain value could be stimulated, including hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure. This could potentially boost the overall industry value by 800 million to 1 billion yuan, showcasing the economic benefits of toll waivers for hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Hydrogen energy was highlighted in China’s government work report this year for the first time as a crucial emerging industry. As the country strives to meet its carbon-emission targets, the focus on hydrogen energy as a sustainable alternative is becoming increasingly important. According to a report by Sinopec Group, China’s major oil refiner, the country’s hydrogen energy consumption is projected to reach nearly 86 million tonnes by 2060, with an industry scale of 4.6 trillion yuan. These projections underscore the significant role that hydrogen energy is expected to play in China’s future energy landscape.
**Government Targets and Industry Growth**
China has set ambitious targets for the adoption of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, aiming to have 50,000 such vehicles on the road by 2025. This government plan for the hydrogen sector reflects a strong commitment to promoting clean energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions. Wang Jingfeng, executive director of the Chongqing Institute of New Energy Storage Materials and Equipment, emphasized the vast potential of hydrogen energy while acknowledging the challenges of developing safe and cost-effective methods for hydrogen storage and transportation.
The Chongqing Institute of New Energy Storage Materials and Equipment, established by Chongqing University in partnership with the Liangjiang New Area in Chongqing, is at the forefront of research and development in the field of hydrogen energy. Wang Jingfeng highlighted the institute’s research into magnesium-based battery materials and hydrogen storage technologies as leading the industry towards innovative energy solutions. This focus on cutting-edge research and industry collaboration is essential for driving the growth of the hydrogen energy sector in China.
In conclusion, China’s shift towards a low-carbon economy has been significantly boosted by the implementation of new policies to support the hydrogen energy sector. The exemption of hydrogen-powered vehicles from expressway tolls and the construction of hydrogen refueling stations are key steps towards promoting the adoption of clean energy solutions. With ambitious government targets and increasing industry growth, hydrogen energy is poised to play a crucial role in China’s sustainable development journey.
