Hydrogen energy has become a key pillar of Zhangjiagang's new energy industry. By the end of 2024, the city was home to nearly 50 hydrogen-related enterprises.
Zhangjiagang has rolled out a series of supportive policy documents to boost the sector, including the establishment of the Jiangsu Hydrogen Energy Technology Innovation Center and other innovation platforms. The city has also launched the Yangtze River Delta Hydrogen Talent Development Alliance, creating hubs to attract and nurture talent critical to the hydrogen industry.
Hydrogen is no longer just a concept—it's becoming part of everyday life in the city. On urban and rural roads, hydrogen-powered buses, once refueled, can run over 300 kilometers with passengers on board. At ports, hydrogen fuel tractors haul general cargo with loads of up to 60 metric tons. On the streets, more than 500 hydrogen-powered shared bicycles are available for public use.
As of the latest figures, Zhangjiagang had deployed 224 hydrogen-powered vehicles—including heavy trucks, forklifts, and logistics vehicles—with a total operational mileage exceeding 15 million kilometers. The city has also built five hydrogen refueling stations, with a combined daily refueling capacity of 3.2 metric tons.
On May 16, Guofu Hydrogen Energy (Hong Kong) Development Co officially commenced operations. This marks another milestone for Zhangjiagang-based Jiangsu Guofu Hydrogen Energy Equipment Co, a leading enterprise in the field, following its listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Guofu Hydrogen is not only a witness to the rise of the city's hydrogen sector but also helps attract investment to the city. At the end of March, during the Jiangsu Hydrogen Innovation and Cooperation Matchmaking Conference—held right in Zhangjiagang—Guofu unveiled a supply chain base development plan. Over the next two years, the company will utilize its leading market position in hydrogen refueling equipment and supply systems, integrate its partners into the local industrial ecosystem, and participate in establishing a 2-billion-yuan ($277.68 million) hydrogen industry fund to support the implementation and growth of promising projects.