Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has approved an initiative to develop green hydrogen production and integrate it into the transport system of the city. The city has set a serious goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2030.
A cleaner ride ahead
One of the key components of this initiative is the purchase of 16 hydrogen-powered buses to replace conventional diesel buses. These eco-friendly vehicles will help transform capital‘s urban transportation landscape.
The waste heat generated during the hydrogen production process will not go to waste. Instead, it will be channelled into bolstering the central heating system of Vilnius, ensuring a sustainable and energy-efficient solution for our city.
Vilnius‘ path to climate neutrality
At the heart of this endeavor is Vilnius‘ determination to achieve climate neutrality by 2030. Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas recognizes the importance of producing “the fuel of the future – green hydrogen” and fostering renewable energy projects to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Green hydrogen, derived through the eco-friendly process of electrolysis, powered by renewable energy sources, is emerging as a beacon of hope in our quest to combat climate change in the transport sector. Vilnius sources its electricity for this process from a biofuel cogeneration plant operated by AB Vilniaus šilumos tinklai, ensuring a sustainable cycle of energy production.
A green hydrogen hub
Vilnius‘ ambitious plan is to produce an impressive 1,140,000 m³ of green hydrogen annually. This green hydrogen will fuel our fleet of 16 hydrogen-powered public buses, replacing their diesel counterparts. This transition is projected to save approximately 1,414 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, which is equivalent to a staggering 1.7 million kilometres of bus travel without harmful emissions.
Powering a cleaner future
A 3 MW electrolyser, strategically installed within the Vilnius district heating network’s territory, is set to be the backbone of our green hydrogen production. This technology is expected to generate sufficient hydrogen gas to power 40 buses, based on the length of their average routes.
Mark your calendar: green hydrogen in 2026
Vilnius is committed to embarking on its green hydrogen journey, starting in 2026. This historic milestone marks the beginning of a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable era for the capital, as we lead the way in embracing the future of eco-friendly transportation.
