Clean Energy Fuels Advances Zero-Emission Transit with New Hydrogen Station Contract

Innovative Hydrogen Fueling Solutions for Sustainable Transit

Clean Energy Fuels Corp. announces a significant development in the push towards zero-emission public transportation with its recent contract to design and construct a hydrogen fueling station for the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) in California. This contract, won through a competitive bidding process, includes not only the construction of the state-of-the-art fueling station but also the provision of hydrogen fuel and ongoing maintenance services. RTA plans to initially operate five hydrogen fuel cell buses, with ambitions to expand this fleet to over 100 vehicles in the coming decade. This strategic move aligns with RTA’s commitment to transitioning to a fully zero-emission vehicle fleet, highlighting the crucial role that hydrogen energy plays in achieving sustainable urban mobility.

The RTA’s service area encompasses some of the longest passenger routes in the United States, making hydrogen an ideal alternative fuel option for high-mileage transit operations. Chad Lindholm, senior vice president of Clean Energy, underscores the significance of this contract, framing it as a testament to the company's leadership in the hydrogen fueling sector. As transit agencies seek cleaner, more efficient energy solutions, the ability to provide reliable hydrogen fueling infrastructure becomes essential. The RTA’s initiative not only supports operational goals but also reflects a broader commitment to enhancing community health and environmental quality through clean energy technologies.

In conjunction with this project, the RTA has secured a $5.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to purchase five 40-foot hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, marking the beginning of a phased transition to a zero-emissions fleet expected to start in 2026. This effort follows Clean Energy’s successful completion of a hydrogen fueling station for the Foothill Transit Agency in Pomona, CA, earlier this year, showcasing the company’s expanding footprint in the hydrogen sector and its dedication to fostering sustainable transportation solutions.

As urban transit agencies increasingly turn to alternative fuels, Clean Energy Fuels stands poised to play a pivotal role in this transition. The growing emphasis on hydrogen as a clean energy source for public transportation not only supports environmental goals but also promotes the development of a robust infrastructure tailored to meet the evolving needs of cities and their residents.