Moreland City Council in Melbourne has announced plans to develop what it says is a world first fleet of waste vehicles powered by 100 per cent hydrogen fuel, as well as the creation of a commercial-scale refuelling station.

The council has teamed up with hydrogen utility company H2U for the project, with a global vehicle manufacturer on board to develop and test the fleet of prototype hydrogen fuel cell waste trucks.

The hydrogen will be generated using electrolysis and a mix of storm water harvesting and solar generation, as well as energy purchased from wind farms.

Moreland mayor Helen Davidson said the project aimed to revolutionise how councils across the world operated in regards to waste collection.

“With the prototype truck to be built locally, council can continue its transition away from fossil diesel fuel and toward renewable hydrogen for all our heavy fleet vehicles,” Ms Davidson said.

H2U chief executive Dr Attilio Pigneri said he was proud to be working with the council on its zero emissions goal.

“We are truly inspired by the knowledge, foresight, enthusiasm and can-do attitude we have encountered at Moreland,” Dr Pigneri said.

Development approval is currently being sought, and state and federal governments are being asked to contribute funding.

“Moreland has always been a recognised leader when it comes to sustainability initiatives and this world first project will take us closer to achieving our zero emissions goal,” Ms Davidson said.