An MoD trial using innovative hydrogen-fuelled charging facilities to recharge electric vehicles (EVs) is taking place at Colchester Garrison. A hydrogen power unit (HPUs) is being tested at Merville Barracks, with pure water the only byproduct of the off-grid charging process. The HPU trial is led by the Defence Support organisation as part of the MoD’s transition to using non-tactical vehicles – known as white fleet in the military – which are zero-emissions at the exhaust by the end of December 2027. Housed in a shipping container, the HPU can charge multiple EVs at the same time. It will be in operation at the barracks for two months
Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “It is fantastic to help explore the use of hydrogen and how it may support Defence in the future. The system allows us to demonstrate the concept here at Merville Barracks and understand the technology’s potential to increase resiliency on our bases and be used on operations at home and overseas.”
The trial is part of the Sustainable Road Transport program, with hydrogen-powered vehicles among other technologies being tested. The intent is to provide resilience and mobility in off-grid or hard to supply locations.
Air Commodore Ange Baker, Defence Support organisation’s Head Support Futures and Operational Energy Authority, said: “It is an important step to start this trial for rapid recharging of our electric car fleet. Not only does this look at supporting the existing charging network and our electric car fleet but is also part of the wider work to examine future energy options for military use and to start configuring Defence for the global energy transition.”
The energy generation, charging and payment technology is provided by renewable energy specialists GeoPura and is also being tested at HMNB Devonport and RAF Leeming.
Rebecca McLean, Chief Commercial Officer at GeoPura said: “GeoPura is delighted to support Colchester Garrison and the MOD in delivering off-grid charging for its growing EV fleet as part of the wider Sustainable Road Transport programme. Hydrogen-powered generators provide a reliable and environmentally friendly source of power with zero harmful emissions, completely unrestricted by grid limitations.”
Notes to editors:
Colchester Garrison is responsible for managing Merville Barracks in Colchester. It provides logistical and infrastructure support to 16 Air Assault Brigade, which is the British Army’s global response force and has most of its units based at the barracks. It also oversees civic relations with Essex and Colchester’s role as a Royal Saluting Station.
