Iceland review - 2004, Qupperneq 64

ICELAND REVIEW SUPPLEMENT / 62
CLEARING THE AIR
Developing a hydrogen economy
An innovation has been implemented in Reykjavík that will ensure that the clean
air that we enjoy now will stay that way for years to come. As things are now,
most of the energy requirements of the city are met by renewable energy. With
the launch in October 2003 of three Fuel Cell test buses that run on hydrogen,
the public transport system has shown its commitment to the use of clean ener-
gy in the future.
The buses run on domestically produced hydrogen made from two renewable
resources, water and electricity, in a local petrol station. The hydrogen is pro-
duced by splitting fresh water into oxygen and hydrogen by way of electrolysis.
The fuel station will be open for public access and ready for commercial opera-
tion once it has been tested and monitored for optimal operations. The buses
will be tested in the public transport system for a period of two years while stud-
ies are carried out to judge the environmental, social and economic implications
of the new form of fuel. This initiative is part of a larger plan to develop a hydro-
gen economy in Iceland. Feasibility tests will also be done concerning the use of
hydrogen fuel in the fishing industry.
The City of Reykjavík has been planning the municipality in other ways as well,
to improve the quality of public transport. By making exclusive lanes for buses
and giving priority at intersections, the city can ensure an efficient transport sys-
tem. Great steps are being taken to make the downtown area more accessible
for the elderly and disabled.
Remember that during your visit you can purchase a Reykjavík Tourist Card for
24, 48 or 72 hours. In addition to giving you a free ride on all the buses, this card
will enable you get into many of the museums and galleries for free. They can
be bought at the central bus stations and tourist information centers around the
city. If you are interested in finding out more about the hydrogen projects,
Icelandic New Energy offers short presentations on a weekly basis. Ask about
these presentations at the information centre.
Tel. (+354) 540 2700
www.bus.is
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