Inside India’s $1.5 Billion Hydrogen Boom And What It Means For Transport – Hydrogen Fuel News


Hydrogen’s Role in Reducing Transport-Related Emissions

India’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 has placed the focus squarely on clean energy alternatives. Hydrogen, especially green hydrogen produced using renewable energy, is emerging as a game-changer in addressing emissions from the transport sector. This sector contributes approximately 8.4% of the country’s total carbon footprint, with heavy-duty commercial vehicles like buses and trucks being particularly hard to decarbonize. Hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles offer a promising solution. These vehicles emit only water vapor as a byproduct, making them a zero-emission alternative for both freight and passenger transport.

Hydrogen stands out for its high energy density and fast refueling capabilities. It is ideal for vehicles requiring long ranges and heavy loads, where battery-electric solutions often fall short. For India to meet its climate targets, hydrogen-powered transport will play a vital role in addressing urban air pollution and transitioning away from fossil fuel-dependent systems.

India’s Hydrogen Projects and Key Players

India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission has catalyzed a range of projects and investments to bolster the country’s green hydrogen ecosystem. Supported by a $1.5 billion World Bank investment, India aims to lead the global energy transition.

Several impactful hydrogen initiatives are already underway:

  • GAIL’s Green Hydrogen Plant: GAIL commissioned India’s first green hydrogen plant in Vijaipur, Madhya Pradesh, earlier in 2024. This represents a major milestone in the commercial production and utilization of green hydrogen.
  • Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd.: HPCL introduced India’s first Solid Oxide Electrolyzer (SOE) at its research center in Bengaluru, further advancing green hydrogen technologies.
  • Green Hydrogen Tenders: Companies like IOCL and SECI have issued key tenders to build green hydrogen production and infrastructure networks, drawing private sector participation.
  • Kerala’s Green Hydrogen Valley Project: With $2.2 billion in funding, this project is pioneering a green hydrogen cluster in Kochi to integrate hydrogen into the state’s transport and industrial systems. The project includes phased implementation stretching to 2040 and aims to reduce carbon emissions by nearly half a million tonnes annually.

Other companies, such as Greenzo Energy and Hygenco, are contributing through significant investments in projects across Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Gujarat, building infrastructure for hydrogen generation, storage, and use at scale.

Pollution in India and the Critical Need for Clean Energy

Air pollution remains one of India’s largest environmental and public health challenges. According to the World Air Quality Report, India is home to 22 of the 30 most polluted cities in the world. Key contributors to air pollution include transport, power generation, and industrial processes. Approximately 1.67 million premature deaths in India were attributed to air pollution in 2023 alone.Air pollution

The transport sector’s dependence on diesel and petrol compounds urban air quality issues, with major metropolitan regions like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai suffering from high particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. Hydrogen-powered vehicles could significantly improve urban air quality by eliminating tailpipe emissions and transitioning to zero-carbon energy in transportation.

Challenges in Scaling Hydrogen Transport

Despite its potential, scaling hydrogen-powered transport in India comes with significant challenges:

  1. Infrastructure Development: A robust hydrogen refueling network is critical to widespread adoption. However, setting up a single refueling station can cost up to $2 million, far exceeding the cost of electric vehicle charging points.
  2. Production Costs: Green hydrogen production is currently expensive, with costs ranging from $3.5 to $5 per kilogram. For it to compete with conventional fuels, costs need to fall below $2 per kilogram.
  3. Technology Maturity: Hydrogen fuel cells for heavy-duty vehicles require further development to improve durability and efficiency.
  4. Public Awareness: The adoption of hydrogen technologies requires greater awareness and education about its benefits and safety.

Opportunities and Kerala’s Leadership in Hydrogen Mobility

Amid these challenges, opportunities abound. Kerala has emerged as a shining example of green hydrogen innovation. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is planning to integrate hydrogen-powered buses into its fleet, reducing dependency on diesel for public transport. Meanwhile, the Kochi Water Metro project seeks to deploy hydrogen-powered boats, further advancing clean transport solutions.

Private and public sector collaborations have been instrumental in Kerala’s success. Initiatives such as the state’s Green Hydrogen Valley project demonstrate the potential of integrating hydrogen into diverse sectors, from freight transport to water-based mobility.

Industrial clusters like Kerala’s are uniquely positioned to unlock economies of scale, drive research, and attract investment. Lessons drawn from the state’s initiatives can inform nationwide policies to scale hydrogen adoption.

The Road Ahead: Leveraging Hydrogen Now and for the Futurehydrogen news ebook

To integrate hydrogen-powered transport effectively, India must act on multiple fronts. Immediate steps include:

  1. Policy Support: Enhancing subsidies and tax incentives for hydrogen infrastructure and vehicles will encourage adoption. Kerala’s policies can serve as a blueprint for nationwide efforts.
  2. Public-Private Partnerships: These collaborations are critical for sharing the high costs of hydrogen production and infrastructure development.
  3. Research and Development: Investments in technology can reduce production costs and improve fuel cell longevity, increasing economic viability.
  4. Pilot Projects: Expanding demonstration projects akin to Kerala’s buses and water transport initiatives can test real-world applications, refine strategies, and build public trust.

India’s hydrogen landscape is evolving rapidly, with estimated production capacity set to expand by 2027. By focusing on scaling infrastructure, reducing costs, and fostering innovation, hydrogen technologies provide a clear pathway for cleaner urban environments and sustainable economic growth. Now is the time to align state and national efforts, setting the foundation for a zero-emissions future globally and locally. With determination and collaboration, hydrogen-powered transport can become a practical, impactful reality for India within this decade.



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