In a pioneering move towards eco-friendly transportation, India showcased its first green hydrogen fuel cell bus during the inaugural ceremony of India Energy Week (IEW) in Goa on February 6. This revolutionary mode of public transport is powered by green hydrogen, emitting only water vapor and hydrogen when utilized as fuel, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options.
The project, a collaboration between Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Tata Motors, marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of sustainable and zero-emission transportation solutions. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that burn fossil fuels, the hydrogen fuel cell converts fuel’s chemical energy into electrical energy through an electrochemical process, producing only water in the exhaust.
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, who first unveiled the green hydrogen fuel bus in September last year, emphasized India’s ambition to become a global leader in hydrogen production and exports. The showcased bus stands as a testament to India’s commitment to fostering a carbon-free transportation ecosystem.
The global demand for hydrogen is projected to surge four to seven times to 500-800 MT by 2050, with India anticipating a fourfold increase in domestic demand from the current 6 MT to 25-28 MT by 2050, as stated by Minister Puri. This unveiling at IEW underscores India’s dedication to being at the forefront of green hydrogen technology.