Powering up with hydrogen
Toyota New Zealand has signed an exclusive distribution rights agreement for stationary hydrogen fuel-cell generators assembled by Toyota Australia.
Partnering with French sustainable-energy solutions provider EODev (Energy Observer Developments), Toyota will invest $3.27 million to assemble its GEH2 generator at its former manufacturing facility in Melbourne from the first quarter of 2024.
Toyota Australia will also sell the generators with Toyota NZ being its first customer with plans to import and distribute in the Kiwi market.
Neeraj Lala, Toyota NZ’s managing director and chief executive officer, says the agreement with Toyota Australia to assemble and supply GEH2 generators is a game-changer for the local market.
“Our strategy is to support New Zealand establish a hydrogen economy beyond light transport,” he adds.
“We are energised to expand our operations through technology innovations, such as the GEH2 generator, especially as they will become more accessible via the Australian assembly facility.
“The hydrogen generators are a sustainable, clean alternative to current options. Sectors, such as construction, are transitioning to low emissions. Utilising the same hydrogen technology that’s in a Mirai, we’re able to provide them with a viable zero-emissions option that’s a positive contribution towards the future of New Zealand.”
The first model to be assembled will be the 110kVA GEH2 generator, pictured. It uses the same Toyota fuel-cell system that powers the Mirai FCEV and provides zero CO2-emissions power generation suitable for various applications. As the market develops, extra models will be considered for assembly and distribution on both sides of the Tasman.
Toyota Australia’s president and CEO, Matthew Callachor, says Toyota is committed to exploring and developing further applications for its fuel-cell technology and helping to grow Australasia’s hydrogen economy.
“Toyota fully supports the Australian federal and state governments’ drive in growing our hydrogen economy, and is committed to exploring opportunities for our fuel-cell technology well beyond its automotive use,” adds Callachor.
“This agreement isn’t about a trial or pilot programme. It is about concrete action that will improve businesses’ access to stationary hydrogen fuel-cell generators and help them reduce their carbon footprints.
“At the same time, our investment will help to build local skills and capabilities in hydrogen technologies in what is a rapidly growing industry that will help Australia and New Zealand meet their emissions-reduction targets.”
Toyota demonstrated the potential for the EODev GEH2 generator this year when it was used to power its Fieldays site and the Horonuku customer activation in the Auckland Viaduct.
