Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with KPIT Technologies during the Global Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Summit in Kochi to promote hydrogen-based mobility initiatives in Kerala. This initiative, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, involves the establishment of Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) in Kochi and Trivandrum to support pilot mobility projects between the two cities, paving the way for safe and sustainable hydrogen-powered public transport.

The MoU was signed by Shri Ranjan Nair, Business Head - Renewable Energy at BPCL, and Shri Ravi Pandit, Chairman of KPIT Technologies, in the presence of notable figures including Shri K R Jyothilal, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Energy, Government of Kerala, Shri Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, IAS, Former Secretary, MNRE, Government of India, Dr. Bharat L. Newalkar, CGM (R&D), Shri D. D. Sarkar, Project Head (Renewable Energy), along with senior officials from both the Kerala State Government and the Central Government.

Promoting Indigenous Hydrogen Technology for Clean Mobility

This collaboration supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by integrating homegrown technologies for a strong hydrogen ecosystem. BPCL plans to deploy a locally developed alkaline electrolyser for hydrogen production, and KPIT Technologies will contribute an indigenously designed fuel cell-powered bus.

After the MoU was signed, senior government officials were able to experience Kerala's inaugural hydrogen-powered bus, marking a significant achievement in transitioning to hydrogen as a viable clean fuel for public transport.

Pilot Project to Yield Essential Real-World Insights

The project seeks to gather crucial data on the performance of fuel cell buses in Kerala's varying climatic conditions, which include high humidity, temperature fluctuations, and heavy rainfall. This information will enhance the reliability of fuel cell technology and support future extensive deployment of hydrogen-powered transportation.

BPCL's Hydrogen Refuelling Stations will create high-purity (>99.99%) green hydrogen for the buses, ensuring a sustainable energy source. BPCL will also gain practical experience in hydrogen dispensing, which will help develop a robust hydrogen mobility framework in India.

A Move Towards a Cleaner Tomorrow

Commenting on the partnership, Shri G. Krishnakumar, Chairman & Managing Director, BPCL, said, "Hydrogen-powered mobility is the future of sustainable transportation. Through this partnership, we are taking significant strides towards building a hydrogen ecosystem in India, providing clean, efficient, and locally developed solutions for public transport."

This initiative will assess the operational reliability and durability of indigenous fuel cell stacks, evaluate the feasibility of fleet operations with passengers, and facilitate the wider adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles across India.

With this collaboration, BPCL further reaffirms its commitment to green energy solutions, contributing to India's overarching goal of a cleaner and more sustainable future.