Why Hydrogen-Diesel Blending Might Be the Easiest Way to Cut Fleet Emissions

When it comes to reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector, most conversations lean toward fully electric or hydrogen fuel cell fleets. But there’s a bankable, highly practical solution being implemented across North America — one that requires no new trucks, no fuel deliveries, and no upfront costs.

Hydrogen in Action

At ESSNA™, we’re helping fleet operators cut emissions and fuel costs today by blending on-site generated hydrogen into their existing diesel supply.

It’s not just theory — it’s already in motion.

“If you’ve got a diesel truck, that carbon intensity is sitting at 60% or more in the tailpipe,” explains Gareth Gregory, ESSNA’s™ North American Head. “By introducing hydrogen into the mix, you're reducing that intensity by a significant margin. From an environmental and opex standpoint (operational expenditure), it’s a compelling value proposition.”

“If you’ve got a diesel truck, that carbon intensity is sitting at 60% or more in the tailpipe,”

The Problem With Waiting for the “Perfect” Solution

Fleet managers are under pressure to reduce emissions, comply with tightening regulations, and hit sustainability targets. But overhauling an entire fleet with electric or hydrogen vehicles requires time, infrastructure, and serious capital.

That leaves most operators stuck — aware of the need for change, but without a realistic path forward.

Hydrogen-diesel blending offers a transitional, scalable solution that works with what fleets already have. There’s no need to wait for perfect conditions. With ESSNA™, the switch can happen right now.

How Hydrogen-Diesel Blending Works

Hydrogen-diesel blending involves introducing a controlled amount of hydrogen into the air intake of a diesel engine. The result? Cleaner combustion, better fuel efficiency, and fewer harmful emissions.

At ESSNA™, we take it a step further:

  • We generate hydrogen on-site at your depot — no fuel deliveries required.
  • Our systems are installed and operated at no cost to you, through an off-balance-sheet model.
  • If needed, we retrofit your vehicles to enable blending, without altering your existing engines.

Once installed, we manage the entire operation — from hydrogen production and fueling logistics to maintenance and monitoring. Your team continues business as usual.

The Benefits Go Beyond the Environment

Yes, hydrogen blending reduces emissions. But the benefits for fleet operators are also financial and operational:

  • Lower Fuel Costs
    Hydrogen reduces diesel consumption, which helps buffer against volatility and this delivers additional revenue streams and/or cost center savings
  • Less Engine Wear
    Hydrogen improves combustion efficiency, leading to cleaner burns and lower maintenance requirements.
  • Access to Carbon Credits
    Blended fleets may qualify for low-carbon fuel standards and other clean energy incentives.
  • No Disruption
    Keep using your current vehicles and fueling infrastructure. The upgrade is behind the scenes — but the impact is front and center.

“Hydrogen” Doesn’t Have to Mean Expensive. Explore the bankability with us

One of the most important aspects of ESSNA’s™ approach is the available CapEx. We fund the entire system — from assessment to installation — so you don’t have to raise capital or stretch your budget.

This lets you explore the benefits of hydrogen without taking financial risks. You can see how it performs on your actual routes, with your actual trucks.

And because the hydrogen is generated on-site, you’re never waiting on deliveries or at risk of delays that could impact operations.

Why It’s Gaining Traction

Clean fuel mandates are only going to get stricter. But for many, hydrogen-diesel blending is becoming a first, easy step — a way to cut emissions, save on fuel, and build internal buy-in for broader decarbonization efforts.

It’s especially attractive for:

  • Regional fleets with centralized depots
  • Companies aiming for ESG milestones
  • Operators dealing with rising diesel costs
  • Municipal fleets with aging diesel vehicles
  • Logistics firms exploring carbon offset strategies

Final Thoughts

Hydrogen-diesel blending won’t solve every problem — but it might be the smartest place to start. It’s low-risk, high-reward, and designed for real-world operations. As Gareth puts it, “This isn’t just a clean fuel solution. It’s a practical business decision.” At ESSNA™, we believe that hydrogen should be accessible, affordable, and adaptable. Our turnkey systems make it possible.

Interested in seeing how it could work for your fleet? We offer a free fuel cost and emissions analysis to help you explore the potential savings.

👉 Reach out today, and let’s talk hydrogen: https://www.energysecurity-na.com/contact-us

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Gareth Gregory
North American Head, ESSNA™