Washington State Launches Affordable Hydrogen Fuel Station, Undercutting California Prices
Key Insights
Douglas County, Washington, has opened the state's first public hydrogen fueling station, offering hydrogen at $4/kg, nine times cheaper than California's $36/kg.
The station is powered by locally produced hydrogen using Washington's abundant hydroelectric power, reducing costs and supporting grid stability.
Toyota Mirai owners in Washington can now refuel affordably, with costs comparable to gasoline-powered vehicles like the Toyota Prius.
The project, developed by Douglas County PUD, includes a hydrogen production facility and aims to expand hydrogen vehicle adoption in the region.
Douglas County, Washington, has become the third U.S. state to offer public hydrogen fueling, with its new station in East Wenatchee providing hydrogen at a fraction of California's prices. At $4 per kilogram, the cost is nine times lower than the $36/kg charged in California, making hydrogen vehicles like the Toyota Mirai economically competitive with gasoline-powered cars. The station, developed by the Douglas County Public Utility District (PUD), is equipped with H70 and H35 ports to accommodate various hydrogen vehicles.
The affordability stems from the PUD's innovative approach: producing hydrogen locally using Washington's abundant hydroelectric power. Electricity accounts for 80% of hydrogen production costs, and the region's cheap, renewable energy enables significantly lower fuel prices. The PUD also leverages its hydrogen electrolyzer to manage excess grid power, enhancing grid stability during periods of high renewable generation and low demand.
While the hydrogen is produced at a dedicated facility in Baker Flats and transported to the fueling station, the project marks a milestone for hydrogen mobility in the Pacific Northwest. Previously, hydrogen vehicle owners were limited to California and parts of neighboring states due to sparse infrastructure. The new station expands driving possibilities, offering a 200-mile radius for refueling, including potential routes into Canada.
Douglas County PUD has also secured used Toyota Mirai vehicles for its fleet and local police use, signaling confidence in the technology. The utility's long-term vision includes attracting automakers to introduce hydrogen models in the region, though broader adoption will require further infrastructure investment. Despite the progress, hydrogen vehicles remain a niche market, with challenges like energy losses in production and distribution compared to battery-electric alternatives.
The project, initiated in 2022 through a partnership with OneH2, underscores the potential of localized hydrogen production powered by renewables. While it won't single-handedly revolutionize the hydrogen vehicle market, it provides a blueprint for cost-effective, sustainable fuel solutions in regions with abundant clean energy.