The Chinese mainland is taking significant strides towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy by introducing new policies to bolster the hydrogen energy sector. At the second Western Hydrogen Energy Expo in Shaanxi Province, authorities announced that starting September 1, hydrogen-powered vehicles equipped with ETC devices will be fully exempt from expressway tolls for three years.
In addition to the toll exemptions, subsidies will be provided to facilitate the construction of hydrogen refueling stations along expressways. This initiative marks Shaanxi as the latest province to support hydrogen-powered vehicles, following similar measures in Shandong, Sichuan, and Inner Mongolia's Ordos earlier this year.
Liu Jianguo, head of the hydrogen energy science and engineering department at North China Electric Power University, emphasized the importance of government support in reducing the high costs associated with fuel-cell vehicles. \"At present, the cost of purchasing and running fuel-cell vehicles is quite high. In addition to relying on technological advancements and mass production to reduce costs, active government guidance and nurturing are also essential for the rapid development of this industry,\" Liu explained.
He further highlighted the potential of heavy-duty trucks powered by fuel cells, stating that reducing or eliminating tolls on expressways can significantly lower the total cost of using these trucks over time. This move is expected to facilitate the introduction of more fuel-cell vehicles, thereby boosting the entire hydrogen energy industry.
Experts believe that these policy catalysts will play a crucial role in optimizing the commercial operation of fuel-cell vehicles, paving the way for a more diversified and environmentally friendly transportation landscape in China.
Reference(s):
Hydrogen sector gets policy catalysts for China's low-carbon shift
cgtn.com
