PLAID Cymru launched a report on the potential of hydrogen in cleaning up the planet at the headquarters of eco-car manufacturer Riversimple in Llandrindod Wells.

Mid and West AM Simon Thomas launched the report which analyses the potential of hydrogen in reducing the carbon footprint of transport in Wales at the offices of the maker of the Rasa sports car.

The first trials of the Rasa, which is powered by hydrogen, are due to begin this summer by people living within a 20-mile radius of a planned hydrogen fuel station in Abergavenny.

The brainchild of businessman Hugo Spowers, the car took around two years to design and build and has had £2 million in financial support from the Welsh Government.

The document concludes with recommendations for the Welsh Government and encourages the government to provide leadership in joining other countries and regions who are making progress in decarbonisation.

The idea of implementing hydrogen transport schemes in Wales is supported by evidence contained in the report.

The research was paid for out of the National Assembly’s Policy, Research and Communication Fund.The Rasa was wheeled out during the report’s launch as an example of the benefits that can be brought by a ‘hydrogen economy’.

The report has been written by Guto Owen and is based on an analysis completed by energy consultancy Ynni Glan which focuses on the current use of hydrogen in Wales’ transport sector as well as the use of hydrogen in the transport sector within the UK and globally.

Mr Thomas, the shadow cabinet secretary for energy, climate change and rural affairs, said: “This report highlights how Wales could take a leading strategic role in the emerging hydrogen economy, but how leadership in Wales is lacking.

“If I was the cabinet secretary in a Plaid Cymru Welsh Government I would be quick off the mark by taking up the recommendation about reaching out to the Hydrogen Council. We could co-organise a major event in Wales which communicates the Welsh nation’s ambition on the hydrogen economy to a global audience.

“Wales can once again be a place of innovators by establishing a dedicated team from our universities and councils to secure the funding for the local production and supply of hydrogen.

“The Welsh Government could use the opportunities provided by the new rail franchise and proposed Metros for the introduction of hydrogen trains and buses in Wales to ensure the air we breathe is non-polluting and fresh.”