Hydrogen refuelling comes to Aberdeen’s First Bus depot
Aberdeen is solidifying its reputation as a leading light in sustainable transport, with First Bus receiving the green light to install a hydrogen refuelling station at its King Street depot.
The station will play an important role in supporting First Bus’s ambitious commitment to achieving a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035.
Diversified energy mix
Alongside the hydrogen refuelling station, First Bus has been granted permission to install two battery storage units at the depot. These containers will store energy generated during the day for use at night, powering depot operations and offices while easing demand on the grid.
The battery units have to be placed in an area currently used for bin storage and screened by a three-metre-high timber fence to address aesthetic and noise concerns raised by nearby residents.
Balancing innovation and community concerns
Aberdeen City Council’s planning committee unanimously approved both proposals, despite objections from the Old Aberdeen Community Council and several residents. Concerns ranged from potential noise disturbances to safety fears surrounding hydrogen storage.
Bill Ireland, representing Logan Energy, addressed these safety concerns during the planning meeting, reassuring councillors that hydrogen storage cylinders are made of steel and are overengineered to be very safe for transport and storage.
Council planners then unanimously supported the project, whilst also highlighting its contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and local pollution.
Aberdeen’s growing zero-emission network
This development comes as First Bus continues its £12.7million investment in Aberdeen, which recently saw the introduction of 24 new electrified buses and 12 repowered vehicles.
The hydrogen refuelling station will complement these efforts, enabling a diversified zero-emission fleet that includes both electric and hydrogen-powered buses.
Aberdeenshire, soon to be home to one of Europe’s largest hydrogen production and refuelling facilities – Kintore Hydrogen – is no stranger to hydrogen innovation.
This latest project builds on the city’s momentum, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with demand as hydrogen and electrification shape the future of public transport.
