Why hydrogen?

Hydrogen is the most abundant element on earth, therefore a good option when considering fuel supply. Hydrogen is an extremely clean fuel option, whether it’s used in an internal combustion engine or a fuel cell. In either scenario, hydrogen will produce minimal to zero air emissions, crucial to the improvement of our air quality.

Where does hydrogen come from?

While hydrogen is the most abundant element on earth, it is not a free element. Hydrogen must be extracted from a molecule. Two examples of molecules that hydrogen can be extracted from are natural gas (CH₄) and water (H₂O).

Steam reformation of natural gas (and other methane sources) is the most common methodology of extracting hydrogen. High temperature steam (700 – 1000 degrees C) reacts with natural gas to produce hydrogen, carbon monoxide and a small amount of carbon dioxide.

CH₄ + H₂O (+heat) => CO + 3H₂

Electrolysis is the method in which hydrogen is extracted from water. William Nicholson, an English scientist, first discovered electrolysis in 1800. When water is electrolyzed, it splits into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen produced at the Town of Hempstead’s refueling station is produced by a proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer.

electricity + 2H₂O => O₂ + 2H₂

Is hydrogen safe?

Hydrogen is non-toxic, therefore safe for our health and environment, non-reactive, although flammable. Hydrogen is lighter than air, so if released, will simply rise quickly and escape into the atmosphere. In this sense, hydrogen is safer than gasoline, which when released, will pool on the ground, therefore causing greater risk for gasoline to sustain a fire.

What vehicles use hydrogen?

Hydrogen can be used in a Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (HICE) or a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV).

How do I use the station?

Presently, fueling is only available for municipal fleet vehicles. An access card is required to activate the fueling system. For more information please contact 516.431.9200.