Hydrogen power to fuel bus network in city?

BUSES powered by hydrogen could be on roads in Swansea in 2027, a meeting heard.

- RICHARD YOULE

A trial of the buses in the city is being explored by Transport for Wales, and a hydrogen refuelling hub on Fabian Way has also been proposed.

Stuart Davies, the council's head of highways and transportation, told a panel of councillors that the buses could be operational from 2027.

This, he said, would coincide with separate proposals to reform the way bus services are operated in Wales.

Transport for Wales has introduced buses powered by electric batteries on the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth service it operates. They are less polluting than diesel buses but the batteries add to their weight.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles normally use what's known as a fuel cell to convert hydrogen into electricity, which in turn provides the power. Refuelling them is quicker than recharging batteries.

Mr Davies said he expected to see a mix of electric and hydrogen-powered buses replacing diesel ones in Wales.

Most bus routes are served by commercial operators and the Welsh Government has long believed reform is needed to better serve the public.