Jim Zoellick
The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District, or AC Transit, has been working to introduce hydrogen fuel cell technology into their transit bus system since 1999. Today they have one of the most comprehensive hydrogen fuel cell demonstration programs in the world. This includes three fuel cell buses operating in regular passenger service that have logged over 125,000 miles while serving more than 300,000 passengers. Their program also includes a fleet of fuel cell passenger vehicles, on-site hydrogen production and fueling, on-site fuel cell vehicle maintenance, extensive evaluation, outreach and education, and safety training.
In support of their hydrogen fuel cell program, SERC has provided consulting services to AC Transit since 2004. We have conducted hydrogen trainings for bus drivers, mechanics, board members (or “policy makers”), and other staff; we have conducted emergency responder trainings for fire departments throughout their service territory; and we have conducted town hall meetings and assisted them with various public outreach activities.
Recently we have begun a new round of work to support AC Transit in building a new hydrogen fueling station at their Emeryville transit facility. We are consulting with them on their facility design and safety analyses and are providing public outreach and first responder training services. Their new hydrogen fueling station in Emeryville will include a publicly accessible fueling station and will serve up to 15 passenger vehicles and 6 buses per day. As much as 420 kilograms of hydrogen per day will be produced from reformed natural gas, as well as electrolytically using solar electricity.
SERC is pleased to be helping AC Transit do this important work to advance hydrogen and fuel cell technology.
