Shell set to open first cluster of hydrogen filling stations
16 Jul 2009
Shell's plans for its first cluster of hydrogen filling stations moved ahead this week with the opening of its second hydrogen filling station in the greater New York City area. A third is due to open in the area later this month and the first one has already been operating there for more than a year.
The opening of the second station - at JFK international airport – is the result of a partnership between Shell, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the US Department of Energy and General Motors. A third station in the Bronx, due to open late in July, has been developed with the New York City Department of Sanitation. A station has been operating in the City of White Plains, New York, since April 2008.
The cluster of stations will provide New York drivers of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles with greater flexibility and convenience. It is a significant step on from stand-alone, demonstration stations and is part of Shell's strategy to build expertise in the distribution and dispensing of hydrogen.
''The prospects for hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are strong in the longer-term'', said Duncan Macleod, Shell vice president, hydrogen. ''This first cluster is an important step as we continue to build capability in retailing hydrogen fuel, in line with the auto makers' plans to develop hydrogen vehicles.''
Port Authority executive director Chris Ward said, ''Through efforts with governmental and corporate partners, the Port Authority leads by example towards the goal of sustainability. The opening of this hydrogen pumping facility is another positive step for the region and the globe. I want to personally thank everyone at Shell for helping to bring this project to fruition.''
NYC sanitation commissioner John J. Doherty said, ''As all city agencies strive to reach the goals of Mayor Bloomberg's PlaNYC initiative and bring a sustainable future to all New Yorkers, public-private partnerships like the hydrogen cluster project announced today will be critical to our success.''
The average range of a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle is between 150 and 200 miles (240-320 km). The three hydrogen stations in New York are within approximately 30 miles (50 km) of each other.
Royal Dutch Shell plc is incorporated in England and Wales, has its headquarters in The Hague and is listed on the London, Amsterdam, and New York stock exchanges.