India Takes a Green Leap with Hydrogen-Powered Buses

For a greener and more sustainable future, India has introduced its first fleet of hydrogen fuel cell buses, marking a significant step in the nation’s commitment to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. These buses, powered by green hydrogen, emit nothing but water vapor as they hit the streets of Delhi, ushering in a new era of clean and eco-friendly transportation.

The initiative, led by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), is part of a larger effort to harness the potential of green hydrogen, which is produced through the process of electrolysis using electricity generated from renewable sources. Green hydrogen is gaining recognition as an eco-friendly energy source, boasting several advantages over traditional fossil fuels.

Clean and Eco-Friendly Transportation

The hydrogen-powered buses emit only water vapor when hydrogen is burned, making them an environmentally friendly choice for public transportation. This technology offers not only a cleaner but also a more energy-efficient alternative to conventional fuels. Green hydrogen is renowned for its three times higher energy density, translating into improved efficiency across various applications.

To produce this clean fuel, approximately 50 units of renewable electricity and 9 kilograms of deionized water are required for every kilogram of green hydrogen. Despite its resource-intensive production process, the environmental benefits and reduced emissions make green hydrogen a compelling choice for India’s energy transition.

Government’s Commitment to Clean Energy

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the pivotal role hydrogen is set to play in India’s transition away from fossil fuels. He emphasized that hydrogen is the future of transportation, with the nation’s extensive synchronous grid infrastructure, capable of managing intermittent renewable energy sources, positioning India as a global leader in hydrogen production and export.

The Minister stated, “Our government has ambitious plans for clean and green energy. India has taken significant steps towards low-carbon development, embracing emerging fuels like hydrogen and biofuels. India is poised to account for 25 percent of global incremental energy demand growth over the next two decades.”

A Promising Future for Green Hydrogen

The introduction of these hydrogen-powered buses is just the beginning of India’s journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. The global demand for hydrogen is projected to increase four to seven times by 2050, reaching a staggering 500-800 million tonnes. Domestically, demand is set to quadruple from the current 6 million tonnes to 25-28 million tonnes by 2050.

India’s oil and gas public sector units (PSUs) have ambitious plans to produce around 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. This green hydrogen-powered bus initiative represents a transformative moment in India’s city transportation landscape, promising not only to reduce emissions but also to catapult the nation into a position of global leadership in clean hydrogen energy production.

A Green Hydrogen Revolution

As the hydrogen-powered buses hit the streets of Delhi, they will collectively cover over 300,000 kilometers during long-term performance and durability assessments. The data generated through these trials will serve as a valuable national resource, shaping the future of zero-emission mobility in India driven by green hydrogen.

India’s commitment to green hydrogen technology is a testament to its resolve to combat climate change and reduce its carbon footprint. With the world’s eyes on this innovative endeavor, India is poised to become a global hub for green hydrogen production, exporting clean energy solutions to the world.

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