Zero Emission Hydrogen/Electric Bus Trial
Image: Metro Tasmania
Three zero emission hydrogen electric buses have now completed more than six months of operation on Hobart’s public transport network, marking an important milestone in Tasmania’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable transport.
The buses have demonstrated strong performance across a range of routes and operating conditions. Feedback from passengers, drivers and operational teams has been positive, with additional benefits reported by businesses located near bus stops, including improved local air quality.
The hydrogen electric buses are operating on regular services around Hobart. Keep an eye out for the distinctive green buses and enjoy a quieter, zero emission journey.
Renewable hydrogen powering the trial
The trial is powered by locally produced renewable hydrogen supplied by the Blue Economy CRC at Lutana. This represents the first production of renewable hydrogen in Tasmania.
A fast hydrogen refueller, also a first for the state, has been installed at Metro Tasmania’s Mornington depot. The refuelling facility supports frequent, high-volume refuelling to meet the operational demands of three busy public transport buses.
Investment and program overview
The Tasmanian Government has invested more than $11 million through the Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Industry Development Fund to deliver the hydrogen bus trial. The initiative was a key recommendation of the Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Industry Activation Study.
The Zero Emission Bus Trial is assessing the performance, efficiency, customer experience and operational requirements of hydrogen electric buses and battery electric buses, compared with traditional diesel buses. A parallel trial of four battery electric buses is currently underway in Launceston.
Together, these trials provide a direct, real-world comparison of emerging zero emission bus technologies in Tasmanian operating conditions.
Local benefits beyond emissions reduction
The trials are also delivering broader benefits for Tasmania, including:
- Training and skills development for operators, drivers, workshop teams and first responders.
- Design and development of site and storage management and safety systems, including supporting infrastructure and operational handbooks.
- Enhanced capability across the transport and energy supply chain, improving knowledge of zero‑emissions refuelling, operations and regulatory approvals.
Updates on the Zero Emission Bus Trial Project can be found on the Metro Tasmania website