Chamber gets a peek at the future
By RACHEL JOHNSON Staff writer
A casual business lunch consisting of hydrogen dogs, a mini-trade show and kicking tires entertained the Aiken business community last week.
On Friday afternoon the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce held a Membership Appreciation Lunch. "We wanted to show our appreciation for all our members do with creating jobs and investing in the community," explained CEO/President of the Chamber David Jameson.
Additionally the Chamber wanted to take the opportunity to introduce the advances of hydrogen research to members. "Aiken County is on the cutting edge of hydrogen research," said Jameson as he pointed to the first registered hydrogen truck in South Carolina parked in June's Garden at the Chamber.
Over forty-five vendors packed the Chamber for a mini-trade show, featuring a wide variety of products and services ranging from ice cream to travel packages and home security systems.
Many attendees took the opportunity to speak first hand with Ernest Chaput of the Center for Hydrogen Research. Currently the hydrogen truck is on loan to the Economic Development Partnership by the Center for Hydrogen Research.
"The vehicle shows what can be done with hydrogen today," explained Chaput to a group of inquisitive visitors. "We believe it is important to develop a replacement for petroleum as supplies dwindle and prices rise. We are thinking of the future and hydrogen is a probable option. The vehicle was bought to introduce South Carolina to hydrogen. It is practical and safe, emitting no greenhouse gases."
Currently the only hydrogen refueling station in the state is located at the SRS, but plans are in motion for additional locations. Researchers are looking for ways to manufacture the hydrogen vehicles that would reduce the cost and make them available to the common consumer.
During the member appreciation lunch, hundreds dropped by to share in the festivities with the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce. "We wanted to deliver a simple message - thank you for all you do to make Aiken the special place it is," Jameson said.
For more information, contact the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce at (803) 641-1111 or visit them online at www.aikenchamber.net.
Contact Rachel Johnson at rjohnson@aikenstandard.com
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