Hydrogen: Powering the most watched sporting events
In recent years, the drive towards net zero has transformed the landscape of sporting events.
Among the emerging innovations, hydrogen fuel stands out as a game-changer in how sports events are powered.
Switching from fossil fuels to hydrogen can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of events. Several high-profile events have opted to utilise hydrogen technology to create greener sporting events.
Hydrogen at sporting events
2020 was the first time in history that hydrogen was used to fuel both the Olympic torch and the cauldron, showcasing a major step towards sustainability. This historic milestone, along with the deployment of 475 hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, highlights the Games' commitment to sustainable energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions.
Read more: Tokyo 2020 goes beyond carbon neutrality and helps create a more “sustainable society”
Case Study: Hydrogen at the 2024 Games
As the Official Hydrogen Supporter for the Games in Paris 2024, Air Liquide will supply renewable hydrogen to power five electro-hydrogen generators at competition venues in Versailles and Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The hydrogen will be produced from water electrolysis or biomethane, ensuring a sustainable energy source for the games.
Read more: Air Liquide, Official Hydrogen Supporter of Paris 2024
Hydrogen fuel cars at sporting events
Toyota has announced the inclusion of 500 hydrogen-powered Mirai vehicles in the official fleet for the 2024 Games, aligning with its commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality. Toyota aims to reduce the carbon emissions of the Games by 50% compared to previous years, utilising a fully electrified fleet of vehicles.
The Mirai, a zero-emission fuel cell vehicle, exemplifies Toyota's dedication to innovative transport solutions, combining electric efficiency with quick refuelling. The hydrogen for these vehicles will be sourced from renewable resources provided by Air Liquide. Hydrogen will help to minimise the environmental impact of the Games, setting a new standard for sustainability in major sporting events.
Case study: Touch Rugby World Cup 2024 goes green with hydrogen power
The 2024 Touch Rugby World Cup, organised by the England Touch Association, is set to become a sustainable event by partnering with GeoPura to utilise green hydrogen generators, significantly reducing carbon emissions by 6.6 tonnes.
Held in Nottingham, the event will span seven days across two venues and traditionally relied on diesel generators. GeoPura’s hydrogen generators, powered by renewable energy, will emit only water vapor.
Read more: World First: Hydrogen Powered Touch Rugby World Cup
Case study: Extreme E and FIA to launch World's first Hydrogen off-road racing series
The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Extreme E have announced plans for the first-ever hydrogen-powered off-road racing world championship, branded as Extreme H.
Set to commence in 2025, this series aims to become an FIA Championship and achieve FIA World Championship status by 2026. The initiative underscores the commitment to sustainable motorsport, leveraging hydrogen technology to reduce carbon footprints and promote environmental awareness.
Read more: FIA and Extreme E announce plans for first-ever Off-Road Hydrogen Racing World Championship