"California is investing millions of dollars to line our freeways with
hydrogen fueling stations so that low-emission cars can travel up and down
our wonderful state," said Gov. Schwarzenegger. "With more and more
businesses proving that hydrogen power is practical, clean and here to
stay, we are well on our way to a hydrogen future. California is committed
to clean air and the health and economic benefits that go along with it."
Following the Governor's address, delegates watched the live
ribbon-cutting ceremony for California's latest hydrogen fueling station
in Oakland, about 400 miles to the north. The station, built by Chevron,
will support AC Transit's fuel cell buses, as well as Hyundai hydrogen
cars.
At the opening session, the assembly also heard from the Governor's
special assistant Terry Tamminen; former Secretary for Environmental
Protection Alan Lloyd; and South Coast Air Quality Management District
board member Cynthia Verdugo-Peralta. President Oscar Temaru of the
Tahitian Islands also spoke about the need for building a hydrogen economy
in his country and presented a special gift to Mr. Tamminen who accepted
the antique Polynesian war weapon on behalf of Gov. Schwarzenegger.
Earlier in his address, Schwarzenegger said he is an "environmental
warrior."
The country's largest hydrogen conference features nearly a week of
hydrogen-related speakers and events, including an exposition with more
than 90 exhibitors. Delegates in attendance represent 24 nations,
including Germany, South Africa, China, India and Brazil and 44 of the 50
U.S. states. One plenary session on "International Progress" featured five
high-ranking officials from Iceland, Canada, the People's Republic of
China, Germany and the European Commission.
"Today's speakers demonstrated how global the hydrogen movement is today,"
said Jeff Serfass, President of the National Hydrogen Association. During
the session, China announced plans to have 20,000 hydrogen fuel cell buses
in operation by 2010.
National Hydrogen Association http://www.HydrogenAssociation.org