In order to integrate existing projects with those developed to make Torino2006 the very first Hydrogen Powered Olympics, Piedmont Region approached several companies who produce fuel cells. Their response was overwhelmingly positive and they agreed to take part in hydrogen technology projects in Piedmont.

Together with the work already presented by the Società Pianeta for installation in mountain locations, our projects should be a sufficient and impressive demonstration that Piedmont Region is working at the cutting edge of this technology, leading the field in Italy and in Europe. 

The Projetto Olympico is also planning to stage demonstrations of hydrogen technology using different kinds of the new fuel cells which are destined to play a major role in the science of energy supply. These include SOFC, Solid Oxide Fuel Cell; MCFC, Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell; and PEFC, Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell. The public will be able to see how far fuel cell technology has developed in the region, while displays illustrating the practical applications of energy from hydrogen will show them how this new energy system will impact on their lives.

The project is being developed in two main areas. In Turin city, hydrogen energy systems are being installed in several Olympic site building complexes, in particular those which will become university faculties. In the mountains the technology has been utilized in the construction of the competition venues and facilities, including the building that symbolizes our commitment to eco-friendly development, the old Italsider complex in Cesana Torinese. After the Games it will house the University of Winter Sports, a new centre for advanced study and specialized training in winter sports.

In Piedmont several companies and research centres have been founded recently that were able to take advantage of the opportunity that hydrogen offers. There is the basic research being done at the excellent laboratories of the Turin Polytechnic University as well as the applied research at the Environment Park (Hysylab). There is work in market system integration with new firms being carried out by Pianeta and EPS. Besides, there is the direct planning and production of technology. This all this makes up a wide spectrum of activities and resources that can work to the benefit of specific market areas, ranging from the automotive industry to permanent energy applications.

After lab and track testing, a fuel cell-powered Iveco Irisbus CityClass bus received type-approval and started to ply its regular city route along the streets of Turin in November 2004.

The bus is equipped with hydrogen tanks located on the vehicle’s roof which supply the fuel cells. In the fuel cells, the hydrogen combines with oxygen in an electrochemical reaction to produce electricity, which is stored in batteries. This energy supplies the converter and the electric drive motor.

The bus can do up to 12 hours of service before refueling, while top speed is 60 kph.