WHILE the introduction of hydrogen-powered buses may improve Selangor’s green mobility ecosystem, an automotive expert is calling for gradual integration.
Universiti Kuala Lumpur-Malaysia France Institute automotive engineering section senior specialist Haidee Che Rizmin (pic) suggested that hydrogen energy be introduced gradually, due to cost concerns.
“If hydrogen buses are forced into the system too quickly, it will significantly increase both the bus operators’ capital and operating expenditures if the infrastructure is not fully ready.
“This may not be practical,” said Haidee.
“While hydrogen buses are clean at the point of use, the production of hydrogen fuel is not necessarily green.
“Using electrolysers requires electricity and around 70% of the electricity grids in Peninsular Malaysia still depend on fossil fuels.
“Hence, in a way, the emissions are just shifted upstream rather than eliminated.”
Haidee also called for careful handling and strict safety protocols for the buses due to hydrogen being highly flammable and sensitive under high-pressure conditions.
“Hydrogen is usually stored in reinforced tanks with very high pressure.
“So, proper safety features such as leak detection, ventilation and emergency shut-off mechanisms are very important.
“We also need properly trained personnel to handle and maintain the system,” he added.
Haidee was referring to a StarMetro May 12 report quoting Selangor investment, trade and mobility committee chairman Ng Sze Han saying that the state planned to roll out hydrogen-powered buses by the end of this year or earlier.
Ng had said WorldWide Holdings Bhd (WHB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Selangor State Development Corporation, was building a hydrogen electrolyser in Batang Kali to produce hydrogen fuel.
The state also worked with Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry to build a hydrogen-refilling station, which is expected to be located in Puchong Utama, as proposed by WHB.
Some public transport users whom StarMetro spoke to were in favour of the switch to hydrogen-powered buses.
Malaysian Land Public Transport Fans chairman Zac Cheong said hydrogen buses were better than electric buses in terms of their range and refuelling speed, although electric buses are more energy efficient and cheaper to operate.
“Hydrogen vehicles’ advantage emerges when you need high utilisation and minimal downtime.
“In Selangor, where many bus depots face space constraints to instal battery charging infrastructure, hydrogen energy can complement the overall ecosystem,” said Cheong.
Procurement executive David Boh, 31, who takes buses regularly, said he looked forward to the roll-out of hydrogen buses.
“I hope enough refilling stations are built after the initiative takes off.
“If there is only one station, buses covering remote areas may face difficulties in refuelling.”
