Commissioning and Initial Operations

 

This sub-stage refers to the very early months of running the buses and the HRS. Once they are ready to operate, it is likely that teething issues will arise as in any new equipment.

As mentioned in the Section on Finance and Planning, it is important to plan for the need for hydrogen backup supply. Such a backup option is of particular importance during the Commissioning and Initial Operations sub-stage. Having this in place means that test runs of the buses can be carried even when completion of the regular HRS is delayed. Backup fuel supply can also be important during Regular Operations.

Bus operators will also need to integrate data collection and analysis from a new type of vehicle and refuelling infrastructure into their regular IT system and procedures to ensure smooth planning, servicing and operation. The bus and HRS supplier must be contracted to provide these data (see also Table 2‑4). When there is co-funding from public sources, additional data collection and analysis may become necessary beyond PTOs’ usual requirements, to be able to prove quantitative project targets have been met.

Safety in the operation of FCBs remains of the highest importance as for any other vehicle. Resources to assist with this issue and are provided in the links below.

Commissioning and Initial Operations: FCBs – Challenges and Best Practice Solutions.

Commissioning and Initial Operations: Refuelling – Challenges and Best Practice Solutions.

Commissioning and Initial Operations – Safety in Operations & Useful Resources.



Hydrogen dispenser at Peizerweg Depot Groningen, The Netherlands.
(Photo by permission of Klaus Stolzenburg/PLANET)