EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A request for proposal was sent out by the National Hydrogen Association and the US Department of Energy to develop a public hydrogen refueling station. This report presents the proposed design developed by the University of Victoria Design Team.

The station is to be located in Vancouver, British Columbia, one of the prime centres of activity in the fuel cell technology and support industries. The station incorporates an ergonomic, space efficient layout with inherent safety benefits. It is designed around liquid hydrogen with a 2,700 kg Dewar, and energy efficient liquid compression to 9,500 psi. On-site storage with centralized production allows for great flexibility in the design and the simple fueling process results in fewer potential failure modes. The single dispenser can easily accommodate high customer demand with a four minute filling time, made possible by a low temperature hydrogen filling system.

The overall well to wheel pathway of this fueling process generates up to 95% less CO2 and requires up to 42% less energy than gasoline. The proposed design requires a low capital investment, and uses components easily available from a proven supplier base. An economic analysis shows that the delivered hydrogen cost is between $0.11/mile and $0.18/mile, based on a ten year discounted cash flow analysis.

The design consists of mainly passive and static components, providing the station with a long life expectancy and safe operation with minimal required maintenance. The station includes effective leak detection and fire suppression systems, and the innovative component layout provides controlled access to process equipment.

One of the greatest benefits of this design is its flexibility. The station has the ability to accept liquid hydrogen from any source, and can easily adapt to future renewable hydrogen production sources. This design is also scaleable to accommodate future growth. It can easily accommodate liquid hydrogen fueling, or 10,000 psi on-board storage with few modifications and minimal additional investment. The station also has the capability of supplying liquid hydrogen directly to local users.

Along with all the built-in benefits of the station, an innovative public awareness campaign is planned to encourage the acceptance of hydrogen as a fuel. With the operation of this station to begin in 2006, it will be the first step in developing the commercial hydrogen infrastructure of tomorrow, here in Vancouver.

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