The Green Leap: Ad Astra Rocket’s Hydrogen-Powered Buses
In an exciting development for Costa Rica’s green initiatives, Ad Astra Rocket Company is preparing to introduce hydrogen-fueled buses for private transport in Liberia, Guanacaste, by 2025. This pioneering step, spearheaded by Costa Rican astronaut Franklin Chang Díaz, marks a significant stride in sustainable transportation.
The Hydrogen Vision of Franklin Chang Díaz
Founded by the famed astronaut, Ad Astra Rocket Company celebrated a decade in Costa Rica last November. The project, having successfully passed its pilot phase, now aims to commercialize green hydrogen for carbon-neutral transportation. The initial rollout will feature four buses, but the vision doesn’t stop there. Chang Díaz envisions replicating this eco-friendly model across Latin America and the Caribbean.
The $7 Million Investment
Ad Astra Rocket, Mesoamérica, and Cavendish (of the Purdy Group) have collectively invested $7 million to jumpstart this ambitious project. Contributions from Recope, the System of Banking for Development (SBD), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) have also played a crucial role.
Renting the Future: 2025 Onwards
Starting in 2025, clients can rent these zero-emission buses, paying a per-kilometer fee. The plan also includes expanding hydrogen production from the current 60 kg per day to an impressive 430 kg.
The Green Production Process
Green hydrogen is produced through water electrolysis, separating elements using electricity. Once stored, it fuels vehicles, harnessing renewable energies like solar and wind for recharging.
A Proven Pilot
The pilot phase saw Nyuti, the first urban electric fuel cell bus, and a fleet of four electric sedans, covering over 66,000 kilometers emission-free. This initial success prevented the release of over 14 tons of carbon dioxide.
The Green Hydrogen School Initiative
With the support of the Kellogg Foundation and the 21st Century Strategy Association, Ad Astra Rocket launched the Hydrogen School to train future green hydrogen industry specialists.
The Demand Activation Initiative
Esteban Echeverría of the Costa Rican Hydrogen Alliance highlighted the development of a green hydrogen ecosystem. This involves financing for transport investment models, particularly in heavy-load transport.
Awaiting International Approval
A $27.6 million grant proposal is under review by the Mitigation Action Facility. If accepted, it will support Costa Rica’s green hydrogen leap, establishing the country as a leader in sustainable energy transition.
A Green Path Forward
As Costa Rica gears up for its hydrogen-fueled future, the nation stands at the forefront of eco-innovation. With the visionary efforts of Ad Astra Rocket and its partners, the country is set to revolutionize transportation, making a significant leap towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Source link
admin
