Element 2 has signed a letter of intent with Riversimple to purchase and take over the operation of its hydrogen refuelling station in Abergavenny, Wales. 

Riversimple manufactures hydrogen powered fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) that will be offered to customers on a subscription-only basis, with a monthly payment that covers all costs including fuel. 

The partnership will see Element 2 supply hydrogen fuel, hydrogen storage and hydrogen pumps at mobile and fixed hydrogen refuelling stations for Riversimple’s existing and future customers.

The intention is to provide hydrogen refuelling for all hydrogen vehicles across the UK as Element 2 develops the first national network of hydrogen refuelling stations. 

Element 2 will become the core hydrogen refuelling infrastructure partner for Riversimple during its next phase of development and will support its UK go to market strategy.  

As well as providing a full turnkey solution for hydrogen supply and refuelling, Element 2 will provide technical and logistical support to Riversimple and its clients as they plan or scope out further hydrogen refuelling solutions.  

Tim Harper, CEO of Element 2, said: “We’re looking forward to working in collaboration with Riversimple to significantly grow the hydrogen vehicle economy. It’s an important step in our roadmap to building the national hydrogen refuelling network needed for achieving the UK’s carbon zero targets.  

“By investing in the Abergavenny hydrogen refuelling station and becoming a core infrastructure partner, we can provide reassurance to Riversimple’s customers and stakeholders that its FCEV fleet is supported by our leading expertise in hydrogen refuelling.”  

Chris Foxall, finance director of Riversimple, added: "The strategic partnership with Element 2 addresses the biggest barrier to a flourishing hydrogen transport sector, which is access to convenient and reliable refuelling infrastructure.  

“Our goal of having thousands of zero emission vehicles with quick refilling times and affordable long range is now one step closer to reality." 

Element 2 will also support Riversimple with demonstrations and projects to promote the benefits of hydrogen passenger vehicles, hydrogen transport and the hydrogen economy. 

The deal comes as BP and BOC completed a detailed joint feasibility study exploring optimised designs for a potential hydrogen distribution and supply network for heavy duty transportation in the UK. 

The nine-month study provided important technical insights into requirements and options for hydrogen distribution, station design considerations, and dispensing costs for heavy duty transport applications.

The study concluded that, in the near-term, distribution of hydrogen as compressed gas via road trailer is the best option to stimulate the UK market for hydrogen fuel for heavy duty transport.