First Bus will reportedly install a hydrogen refuelling station at its depot in Aberdeen, Scotland, which has sparked concerns from the local community.

The move comes after the UK public transport company announced it would inject £12.7m ($15.9m) into the city as it introduced a fleet of 24 new electric buses and 12 repower buses. Additionally, the company will install two battery storage containers at the King Street depot.

H2 View understands that the Old Aberdeen Community Council had objected to the plan for new refuelling infrastructure due to potential noise pollution.

Nearby residents also opposed the plans amid worries of an unexpected hydrogen explosion at the site. However, council planners are expected to approve the installations, likely swayed by the promise of integrating greener technologies into the area.

Speaking earlier this month, Duncan Cameron, Managing Director at First Bus Scotland, said the £12.7m investment would “align with green ambitions” and “underscore [the] commitment to providing more sustainable and comfortable transportation options for the city.”

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO at WrightBus, also commented. “Public transport is at the forefront of the green revolution,” he said, “and these buses for Aberdeen will instantly remove harmful emissions from the city.”