In a recent announcement, Shell (NYSE:SHEL) revealed its decision to cease the operation of hydrogen light-duty passenger fueling stations in California. The move is attributed to supply chain issues and other external market factors, dealing a significant setback to the state’s hydrogen mobility aspirations.
What Happened: Shell’s hydrogen division, Equilon Enterprises, will no longer operate hydrogen light-duty passenger fueling stations in California, as per a circular sent to customers by Andrew Beard, Shell Hydrogen’s Vice President, Forbes reported on Sunday. The company’s decision has led to permanently closing seven hydrogen stations, most of which are in the San Francisco Bay Area. This move effectively reduces the fueling options for hydrogen fuel cell car drivers in California by 12%.
Shell’s decision is a significant blow to California’s struggling hydrogen fuel cell passenger technology and the broader U.S. market. The state’s hydrogen fueling stations have been grappling with supply issues since last summer, resulting in high fuel prices, erratic operating hours, and long waiting ...