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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to launch a new hydrogen-powered car fuel station, marking a significant step forward for the country’s efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources.
According to a recent report by Arabian Business, the new fuel station will be built by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in collaboration with France’s Air Liquide, a major supplier of hydrogen.
The station, which is expected to be operational by the end of this year, will serve fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the Dubai Expo 2020 site, as well as other FCEVs in the region.
This move is part of the UAE’s larger plan to increase the use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel source in the country. The UAE is already a leader in the adoption of solar energy, and the new hydrogen fuel station is another step toward the country’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint.
The Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology for the UAE
The hydrogen fuel cell technology has gained attention in recent years as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. FCEVs use a fuel cell to convert hydrogen into electricity, with water vapor as the only byproduct. Unlike battery electric vehicles, FCEVs have a longer range and refueling time is comparable to traditional gasoline vehicles.
“The UAE is committed to supporting sustainable development and has set ambitious targets to increase the share of clean energy in its energy mix,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
“The launch of the hydrogen station is part of our efforts to achieve these targets and promote the use of clean energy in the UAE’s transportation sector. We are pleased to partner with Air Liquide to support this initiative and contribute to the development of a sustainable hydrogen economy in the UAE.”
Challenges to the Adoption of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles in the Region
Air Liquide, which has been operating in the UAE for more than 50 years, will provide the technology and expertise for the new fuel station. The company has already built more than 100 hydrogen stations around the world, and it is a leading supplier of hydrogen in the transportation sector.
“We are very proud to bring our hydrogen technology and expertise to Dubai and the UAE,” said François Jackow, Executive Vice-President and a member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee.
“This project is a great illustration of our commitment to a sustainable future and our ability to provide our customers with innovative solutions that meet their environmental and economic objectives.”
The new hydrogen fuel station is expected to play a key role in promoting the use of FCEVs in the UAE and the wider region. As more car manufacturers invest in FCEVs and expand their production lines, the demand for hydrogen fuel is expected to increase.
The Future of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology in the UAE and the Wider Region
The UAE’s move toward cleaner energy sources is in line with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. According to the International Energy Agency, the transportation sector accounts for around 24% of global carbon dioxide emissions, and the adoption of FCEVs could significantly reduce these emissions.
With the launch of the new hydrogen fuel station, the UAE is taking an important step toward achieving its clean energy goals and reducing its carbon footprint. It is a positive development for the country and the wider region, and it could pave the way for more investment in hydrogen fuel cell technology in the future.
