The use of hydrogen-powered vehicles in natural disasters: A review

Year 2025, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 20 - 29, 21.08.2025

Dilara Zehra Yüce , Bensu Prencuva , Ozan Erdinç

https://doi.org/10.14744/cetj.2025.0002

Abstract

Ensuring energy continuity in the aftermath of disasters is a growing global concern, particularly as extreme weather events and infrastructure disruptions become more frequent. Hydrogen-powered mobile energy systems, especially Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), offer a promising solution due to their clean operation, high mobility, and capability to function independently of damaged grid infrastructure. This study presents a comprehensive review of hydrogen-based mobile technologies in the context of disaster resilience. It categorizes key technologies—including hydrogen production methods, storage solutions, and fuel cell types—and explores their integration into microgrid and vehicle-to-load (V2L) applications. Real-world implementations in Japan, South Korea, the United States, Germany, and Puerto Rico are examined to identify operational benefits and constraints. A SWOT analysis is conducted to evaluate technical, economic, and regulatory factors, and research gaps are discussed with emphasis on the lack of real-time task-routing models and AI-supported dispatch systems. The paper concludes with a strategic roadmap and policy recommendations to facilitate the deployment of hydrogen-powered mobile units in future emergency response frameworks.

Keywords

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles , Resilience , Sustainable , Hydrogen Energy , Energy Flexibility , Load Prioritization

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