Campus may become hydrogen-powered

MISSOULA – The College of Technology here is interested in moving its campus to the Fort Missoula area, powering it with hydrogen energy and offering courses in hydrogen as an alternative to conventional fuels.

It’s all in the vision stage, a vision recently buttressed by a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Energy Department.

The hydrogen-powered campus and the new curriculum are the dream of Paul Williamson, dean of the College of Technology, which is part of the University of Montana system. His vision is part of an emerging plan for the Fort Missoula area.

It’s been about two years since Williamson began talking about adding hydrogen energy to the curriculum at the College of Technology. He has been spreading the message that hydrogen, drawn from landfills, air and other sources, can be used in place of gas and electricity if the right equipment is in place.

After Williamson pitched the idea to Montana’s congressional delegation, the lawmakers helped him land the $750,000 this year. Williamson said the money will be used to further develop the hydrogen education plan and prepare a “to do” list for the next five to 10 years. He finds the timing perfect because development of the Fort Missoula area is being contemplated. A preliminary plan has been agreed upon by entities with a stake in the area’s future.