National Events

The UK Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (UK HFCA) will be hosting an event on 4 October 2011 that focuses on a discussion on tackling the regulatory challenges in the deployment of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies. There will be a workshop held, with a range of stakeholders from the industry and Government in the audience, which aim is to update on recent developments in regulations, codes and standards, learn from real-life experience and exchange best practice. With an eye on contributing to the achievement of a coherent regulatory framework, the workshop will also dwell upon highlighting the necessary changes and how they can be realised. To find out more the interested parties can email info@ukhfca.co.uk

The Dutch Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Association (NWV), a national EHA member, will hold its Annual General Meeting on 6 October 2011.
Further information and agenda of the meeting will be available at www.waterstofvereniging.nl

The European Parliament’s committee on Transport and Tourism discussed in a meeting on September 8th 2011 the consideration of a draft report presented by Parliamentarian Mathieu Grosch. The report was presented with the inclusion of hydrogen powered vehicles as an option that shall be decided by the member states along with other available options.
The report explains “European Parliament should be technology-neutral, as each source of alternative energy has specific characteristics and bears certain advantages and disadvantages. Whether electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles, biofuels, synthetic fuels, LPG or biogas are used or can be used depends on the form of transport and Member States themselves. In my opinion, only a mix of energy sources can provide realistic and sustainable solutions.”
Mr. Grosch proposes targets to cut CO2 emissions by 20% in road transport and 30% in air transport and shipping by 2020. He also wants energy consumption and noise in the rail sector to fall by 20%.