Sarawak DAP chief and Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen recently called for Sarawak to shift from hydrogen buses to electric-powered ones for its autonomous rapid transit system in Kuching.
Chong’s statement in the Sarawak state assembly is erroneous and demonstrates his lack of understanding on how the renewable energy sector is developing.
Hydrogen fuel cell buses are definitely the way to go, and not just for Sarawak’s ART system, but even for other public transport vehicles.
And judging by what is being done in Japan and South Korea, there is a possibility that cars could eventually be powered by hydrogen fuel cells too.
Long-term viability
While the assemblyman points out that some cities have moved from hydrogen to electric buses, it’s essential to consider that hydrogen technology is advancing quickly and may have substantial long-term benefits for sustainability.
Hydrogen fuel cells offer a clean, renewable energy source that could complement electric systems, especially as hydrogen production becomes more efficient and green, for example, through hydropower, solar or wind-powered electrolysers.
Relying on hydrogen also aligns with Sarawak’s broader goal of promoting a green economy and leveraging on the renewable energy sector.
Comparing energy storage advantages
Hydrogen fuel cell buses generally have longer ranges and faster refuelling times, compared with current electric buses.
Hydrogen buses could prove advantageous for cities with high-frequency transit needs or where long-range travel is common, by reducing the downtime associated with charging electric buses.
In places like Sarawak, with a high renewable energy capacity, the ability to use locally-produced hydrogen, potentially from hydropower, could make the system self-sustaining.
Sarawak’s advantage
While some cities have shifted away from hydrogen, it is not an indication that hydrogen buses are inherently unviable.
Factors such as the availability of green hydrogen, fuel cell technology advancements, and supportive infrastructure play significant roles.
Notably, multiple cities in Japan, South Korea, and California are still investing heavily in hydrogen technology, recognising its potential to support large-scale clean transportation.
Sarawak, with its strategic access to renewable resources, is uniquely positioned to pioneer hydrogen fuel cell technology rather than following global trends driven by different regional constraints.
While hydrogen technology currently has higher initial costs than electric buses, ongoing developments are rapidly reducing these costs, and the economies of scale are expected to bring down operational expenses.
Early investment in hydrogen fuel could establish Sarawak as a leader in hydrogen innovation, attracting talent, partnerships, and technology advancements to the region, potentially boosting the local economy and setting the foundation for a robust green industry.
Renewable energy goals
Sarawak, driven by visionary premier Abang Johari Openg, has an ambitious agenda to harness and export renewable energy, and a hydrogen-based public transport system would align well with this goal.
Using hydrogen fuel cell buses would help Sarawak showcase its commitment to clean energy, reinforce its green image internationally, and support its green energy infrastructure beyond just buses.
Hydrogen has applications in power storage, heavy transport, and even potential export markets for all sectors of the automotive market.
In conclusion, although electric buses may currently be more cost-effective in certain cases, the potential benefits of investing in hydrogen — especially given Sarawak’s access to renewable resources — warrant serious consideration.
An early investment in hydrogen could provide Sarawak with environmental, economic, and technological advantages, supporting a green future that is aligned with both state goals and emerging global trends in clean energy. - FMT
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
The author can be reached at: rosli@mdsconsultancy.com
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