Humboldt Transit Authority officials presented a video at the Humboldt County Association of Governments meeting on Dec. 18 previewing a new hydrogen fuel‑cell bus pilot and outlining plans to expand the technology across the regional fleet. Agency presenters said the pilot bus is the first hydrogen fuel‑cell bus for rural service in the region and described plans to order 11 hydrogen buses to replace diesel Redwood Transit System vehicles, each of which currently uses about 10,000 gallons of diesel a year.

HTA representatives described hydrogen fuel‑cell buses as similar in operation to battery electric buses but with a liquid‑fuel‑style refueling process that can restore range in roughly 10 minutes instead of hours of charging. Presenters said the buses have extended range—important for long rural routes with steep grades and runs of roughly 400 miles—and that a planned hydrogen fueling facility at HTA would include a public 'over‑the‑fence' fueling component and a North Coast Zero‑Emission Mission Training Center where staff from other agencies could train on the technology.

Agency staff said partnership with local high schools, community colleges and regional trainers will be used to build a workforce for maintenance and operations. The presentation emphasized local environmental benefits, noting the agency’s aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and preserve the county’s natural resources for future generations.

Board members and public commenters praised the video and asked that the presentation link be shared so councils and district boards can view it. A few public commenters asked about cost comparisons and alternatives; one commenter urged consideration of diesel‑electric hybrids as a lower‑cost option. HTA said the pilot is part of a broader strategy that combines state funding, workforce development and local partnerships and that more detailed financial and procurement information will be available as the project advances.

Next steps: HTA will proceed with the pilot and follow up with the board and local jurisdictions as procurement and fueling‑site planning continue.