IIT-Kanpur, IIT-BHU to Anchor UP’s Green Hydrogen Research
On December 16, 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government announced the establishment of two Centres of Excellence (CoE) dedicated to green hydrogen research, led by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and Banaras Hindu University (IIT-BHU). This initiative is part of the UP Green Hydrogen Policy 2024, which aims to position the state as a leader in green hydrogen production and technology.
Overview of the Initiative
The decision to set up these centres was made following recommendations from a high-level expert committee and was approved by Energy Minister AK Sharma. The initiative is designed to support applied and experimental research in various aspects of green hydrogen, including:
- Production
- Storage
- Transportation
- Utilisation
Both IIT-Kanpur and IIT-BHU will collaborate with local universities to create joint facilities that will enhance research capabilities and foster innovation in green hydrogen technologies.
Details of the Centres of Excellence
The first CoE will be established by IIT Kanpur in partnership with Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU), while the second will be set up by IIT-BHU in collaboration with Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology (MMMUT) in Gorakhpur. The centres will operate from the campuses of the partner institutions and will share academic leadership, research infrastructure, and equipment.
According to the approved framework:
- The lead institutions will cover at least 50% of the costs associated with research infrastructure and equipment.
- Facilities will be accessible to both partner universities, promoting collaborative research.
- Joint supervision of research projects, including PhD studies, will be permitted, allowing faculty from one institution to serve as co-guides or co-investigators at the other.
Research Focus and Objectives
The primary focus of the CoEs will be on:
- Applied and experimental research in green hydrogen technologies.
- Supporting industrial applications.
- Providing technical and policy advisory inputs to the state government.
Additionally, the centres will act as nodal technical bodies for Uttar Pradesh, offering support to state departments, industries, startups, and academic institutions. They will also assist in implementing green hydrogen projects across the state.
Policy Framework and Gender Inclusion
The UP Green Hydrogen Policy 2024 outlines ambitious targets, including the production of 1 million metric tons of green hydrogen annually. To achieve these goals, the policy provides capital subsidies, land incentives, and tax benefits to promote investment in this sector.
Importantly, the policy mandates that at least 25% of project-related opportunities must be reserved for women, ensuring gender inclusivity in the burgeoning green hydrogen sector.
Strategic Importance of Green Hydrogen
Green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy sources, making it a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Its applications are vast, including:
- Industrial processes
- Petroleum refining
- Manufacturing of ammonia
- Heavy-duty mobility solutions
The establishment of these CoEs is seen as a strategic move to position Uttar Pradesh as a major hub for green hydrogen research, manufacturing, and deployment, aligning with the global shift towards clean energy solutions.
Collaboration with International Partners
Uttar Pradesh has already taken steps to enhance its green hydrogen capabilities through international collaboration. The state signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture, which aims to support the production, supply, and technological development of green hydrogen. Additionally, several private companies have signed MoUs during recent investor summits to establish green hydrogen production plants in the state.
Future Prospects
As the CoEs begin their operations, they are expected to play a crucial role in achieving Uttar Pradesh’s goal of ensuring that at least 50% of the green hydrogen produced in the state is consumed locally. The centres will also support pilot and demonstration projects, including proposals for green hydrogen-based transport corridors.
The government views this initiative as a significant step towards a clean energy transition, with the potential to create jobs, foster innovation, and contribute to sustainable development in the region.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Centres of Excellence for green hydrogen research at IIT-Kanpur and IIT-BHU marks a pivotal moment for Uttar Pradesh in its quest to become a leader in renewable energy. By fostering collaboration between academic institutions and industry, the state aims to harness the potential of green hydrogen to drive economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data and developments as of December 2025.
