With the launch of Viva Energy’s landmark hydrogen refuelling station occurring in Geelong late last week, foundation partners have begun preparing for a lower emissions transport future in both the state and around the country.
Toll Group is one of the major foundation partners of the hub, with the operator confirming its commitment to decarbonising its transport logistics operations and achieving net zero by 2050.
The new facility was opened by deputy Prime Minister Richard Males and Victorian climate action, energy and resources minister Lily D’Ambrosio. The site will provide renewable hydrogen generated on-site to a fleet of heavy vehicles, with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) backed site able to be used by the likes of Toll.
To support this, Toll will deploy two hydrogen prime movers that are expected to commence operating later this year. The B-doubles will haul steel products from Hastings to Geelong on a 300km round trip that will save 95,000 litres of diesel and remove 254 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.
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This hydrogen technology investment comes alongside Toll’s broader $200 million commitment to fleet renewable that features upgrading its local fleet with next-generation, fuel-efficient vehicles.
Toll Group chief commercial and sustainability officer Anna Green says the company’s hydrogen investment reflects its focus on identifying the “right mix” of renewable and low-emission fuel sources.
“We’re proud to be one of the first in our sector making a meaningful investment in hydrogen transport,” she says.
“We know the path to net zero will rely on a range of technologies. That’s why we’re investing in hydrogen, electric vehicles and more efficient diesel alternatives as we progress toward a low-emissions future.”
Green says hydrogen deployment builds on Toll’s position as a major operator of electric heavy vehicles in Australia’s third-party logistics sector.
“With support from ARENA, we announced a $67 million investment last year in the purchase and operation of 28 battery-electric heavy vehicles and new charging infrastructure across 10 locations nationwide,” she says.
“We’re working closely with our customers to deliver logistics solutions that support their growth ambitions while helping reduce environmental impact.”