Australasia’s First Hydrogen Refueling Network Kicks Off in New Zealand with Support from SGS

Australasia’s First Hydrogen Refueling Network Kicks Off in New Zealand with Support from SGS

(IN BRIEF) Hiringa Energy has launched the first hydrogen refueling station in New Zealand as part of a broader initiative to establish Australasia’s first hydrogen refueling network. This network, powered by renewable electricity, aims to support the transition to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 by providing a zero-emission alternative for heavy transport. SGS has been chosen as an independent partner to enhance process automation and ensure safe data collection for the project. The initiative, which has received backing from the New Zealand government, is a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) GENEVA, 20-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — In a significant development for the transition to net-zero emissions, Hiringa Energy has launched its first hydrogen refueling station in New Zealand, marking the beginning of Australasia’s first hydrogen refueling network. This ambitious project, supported by SGS as an independent third-party, aims to establish hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure across New Zealand and Australia, providing a crucial alternative for heavy transport.

The initial station, located at Waitomo Wiri, represents a major milestone in New Zealand’s journey toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This network will be powered by renewable electricity and is designed to cover key freight routes, enabling hydrogen-powered trucks and buses to refuel with green hydrogen in just 10 to 20 minutes.

SGS played a critical role in ensuring the project’s success by enhancing process automation and ensuring the safe collection of data necessary for monitoring and optimizing hydrogen production. The company provided expertise in cloud security configuration, OT cybersecurity, IIoT edge equipment, and cloud-based SCADA configuration. Additionally, SGS supported the startup and commissioning phases, addressing unique challenges to bring the refueling station online.

The project, backed by the New Zealand government, was developed in partnership with Waitomo Group and TR Group, the region’s leading fuel supplier and largest heavy vehicle fleet owner, respectively. With three more stations already in the production phase and 40 additional sites in development, this network is set to play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies in the transport sector.

Guy Heaysman, Project Manager at SGS, highlighted the significance of the project: “New Zealand, along with many other countries, is embarking on a journey to reduce carbon emissions, and the use of hydrogen as a transportation fuel is just one of the renewable technologies that New Zealand is currently adopting. Our team was proud to contribute to this groundbreaking initiative.”

This initiative not only underscores New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for similar efforts in other regions, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

About Hiringa Energy

Hiringa Energy is a next-generation energy company redefining the future of green energy infrastructure and transporting fuels through adopting green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is clean energy. It is both produced and used with zero carbon emissions. Hiringa Energy makes, moves, stores and sells green hydrogen for use in transport, industry and energy sectors. It offers businesses a competitive, reliable supply of green hydrogen and works with organizations to integrate this into their operations.

About SGS

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

Media Contact:

Guy Heaysman
Industries & Environment
Business Development Manager
t: +64 6 757 5562

SOURCE: SGS