New NHA Report on Permitting, Planning a Hydrogen Vehicle Demo
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by Patrick Serfass, National Hydrogen Association

A new NHA report is now available for those who have an interest in organizing a Ride and Drive event or supporting a fleet introduction for hydrogen vehicles.  The report, “Permitting and Planning a Hydrogen Vehicle Demonstration,” conveys experience gained in planning hydrogen vehicle demonstrations so that event planners may convey a positive, lasting impression to permitting officials.

Today, the codes and standards for hydrogen technologies are not yet fully in place.  Without a code book to reference, permitting officials are often required to approve or reject proposals for hydrogen demonstrations or installations based on their personal level of comfort with the periodic table’s number one element.  The report describes lessons learned and steps which proved successful when the NHA teamed with a member auto manufacturer to approach Washington, DC officials with the idea for hydrogen vehicle demonstrations.  Officials in other cities will likely have similar needs since they have similar responsibilities to the general public.

After talking with dozens of permitting officials involved in various aspects of the vehicle demonstrations, the core needs for different groups (e.g., fire, police, emergency management agency) became quite clear, as did the individual’s requests for information about the demonstrations.  For example, fire officials wanted specific information like vehicle schematics with “No Cut” and zones marked for fuel lines and high voltage.  Police officers on the other hand, wanted logistical information, but were less concerned with the vehicle’s safety systems.

In our encounters with the officials, the two qualities consistently well-received were a conveyed sense of responsibility and preparedness.  A clear, well-prepared “Vehicle Information Package” (pg. 2 of the report) conveyed these qualities using the information individually requested by different officials.  In addition, approaching the officials early to describe the plan allowed an opportunity to answer their basic curiosities about hydrogen and improve their knowledge base.

The best education tools for promoting hydrogen transportation are the vehicles themselves.  To get the press, policymakers, students and the general public behind the wheel, our experience tells us that permitting officials must be approached first.  The goal of this report is to help make that experience as smooth and fruitful as possible.

The report, free for members, can be ordered online at: http://www.hydrogenus.org/nha-publications.asp.  For assistance introducing hydrogen vehicles to your region or information on membership, contact the NHA. ©2003. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of the National Hydrogen Association.
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