Uttar Pradesh Approves Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen at IIT-BHU to Boost Clean Energy and Mobility
In a significant stride towards promoting clean energy and green mobility, the Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen at the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi. This initiative is part of the Uttar Pradesh Green Hydrogen Policy-2024 and has received formal approval from the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA).
Joint Development by IIT-BHU and MMMUT Gorakhpur
The Centre will be developed collaboratively by IIT BHU and Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology (MMMUT), Gorakhpur. Approximately 50% of the project infrastructure will be established at MMMUT, which aims to enhance the regional technology ecosystem in eastern Uttar Pradesh. This collaboration combines academic excellence with applied research capabilities, with IIT BHU serving as the lead institution responsible for strategic planning, research direction, and technical mentoring.
Hydrogen-Powered Mobility: Train and Bus Initiatives
A flagship aspect of this initiative is the proposed hydrogen-powered train service connecting Varanasi and Gorakhpur. This project will be developed in partnership with the Ministry of Railways, serving as a live testbed for hydrogen storage, transportation, operational performance, and end-use applications. Alongside this, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) plans to introduce green hydrogen-fueled buses along the same route, positioning eastern Uttar Pradesh as a hub for clean mobility solutions.
Goals of the Mobility Initiatives
- Demonstrate scalable hydrogen-based transportation solutions.
- Foster public awareness and adoption of clean energy technologies.
- Enhance regional connectivity through sustainable transport options.
Research Focus and Technology Development
Dr. Preetam Singh, Coordinator and Associate Professor in the Department of Ceramic Energy at IIT-BHU, emphasized that the Centre will prioritize both biomass-based and electrolyser-based hydrogen production. Given the state’s abundant biomass resources, the focus will be on developing cost-effective biomass-based hydrogen technologies while also exploring emerging hydrogen pathways.
Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
The Centre will function as an incubation hub to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and startups in the green hydrogen and clean energy sectors. Under a hub-and-spoke model, nearby engineering colleges and technical institutes will act as spokes, receiving curriculum support, faculty training, mentoring, and access to technical exhibitions. This approach aims to foster a comprehensive ecosystem for hydrogen technology development.
Policy Support and Strategic Impact
Beyond research and technology development, the Centre will provide policy recommendations to the Uttar Pradesh government regarding hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization. This will promote evidence-based policymaking in the sector, ensuring that the initiatives are aligned with the state’s clean energy goals.
Significance for Uttar Pradesh and India
The establishment of the Centre of Excellence positions Uttar Pradesh as a pivotal player in India’s green hydrogen ecosystem. By integrating cutting-edge research with industrial applications and clean mobility solutions, this initiative is expected to accelerate the state’s contribution to India’s clean energy targets while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the hydrogen sector.
Statements from Key Officials
Prof. Amit Patra, Director of IIT BHU, described the initiative as a landmark project for clean energy research in India. He highlighted that the hydrogen-powered train and bus operations would mark a significant milestone in India’s energy transition, opening new avenues for green mobility and sustainable development in the region.
Conclusion
The Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen at IIT-BHU represents a crucial step towards a sustainable energy future for Uttar Pradesh and India. By leveraging local resources and fostering collaboration among educational institutions, the initiative aims to create a robust framework for clean energy innovation, ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable society.
Note: This article is based on information available as of October 2023 and aims to provide an overview of the developments regarding the Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen.
