Nikola, OPAL Fuels to build hydrogen fueling stations across North America

Nikola Corporation has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with OPAL Fuels for co-developing and constructing hydrogen fueling stations and related infrastructure in North America and the use of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the production of hydrogen.

While Nikola is a provider of zero-emissions transportation and energy infrastructure solutions, OPAL Fuels delivers renewable natural gas and renewable fueling infrastructure for heavy-duty truck fleets.

Under their partnership, Nikola and OPAL Fuels plan to co-develop and co-market hydrogen refueling infrastructure to expedite the adoption of heavy-duty zero-emission fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV).

Nikola, OPAL Fuels to build hydrogen fueling stations across North America. Logo courtesy of Nikola Corporation.

Pablo Koziner — Nikola President, Energy, and Commercial said: “This alliance with OPAL Fuels provides excellent potential synergies given their experience building and operating fueling stations.

“Today marks another important step forward in Nikola’s stated energy infrastructure plans and its focus on providing hydrogen fueling services to customers.”

OPAL Fuels is said to have built over 350 RNG fueling station projects, besides working with trucking fleets across North America in lowering the carbon intensity of their fuel.

Nikola plans to launch its Tre FCEVs for the North American market in 2023 from its manufacturing facility in Coolidge, Arizona.

Adam Comora — Co-CEO of OPAL Fuels said: “We are very excited to be working with Nikola to help fleets realize the potential of hydrogen fuel-cell trucks with reliable, cost-effective fueling infrastructure.

“Coupled with RNG as a fuel source to lower the carbon intensity of hydrogen, we see a very powerful combination for the future.”

As per the MoU, Nikola and OPAL Fuels plan to begin beta projects with certain customers to drive engagement and fast track development.