UP Govt Approves Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence at IIT-BHU and MMMUT
Varanasi: The Uttar Pradesh government has recently approved the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen, a significant initiative under the Uttar Pradesh Green Hydrogen Policy-2024. This Centre will be jointly developed at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology (MMMUT) in Gorakhpur.
Objectives of the Centre
The approval was granted by the Uttar Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA). The primary aim of this Centre is to accelerate research, technology development, capacity building, and the industrial applications of green hydrogen across the state. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
- Hydrogen-Fuelled Train: A major highlight of this initiative is the proposed operation of a hydrogen-fuelled train between Varanasi and Gorakhpur. This project will be developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways.
- Testing and Applications: The train project will enable comprehensive testing of hydrogen storage, transportation, operational performance, and end-use applications.
- Green Hydrogen-Powered Buses: The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) plans to introduce green hydrogen-powered buses on the same route, positioning the region as a leader in clean mobility.
- Infrastructure Development: Nearly 50% of the project’s infrastructure will be set up at MMMUT, while IIT-BHU will act as the lead institution, providing strategic direction and research leadership.
Leadership and Coordination
The initiative is being coordinated by Dr. Preetam Singh, an associate professor in the Ceramic Engineering department at IIT-BHU. He will be supported by several co-coordinators including:
- JV Tirkey (Associate Professor)
- Akhilendra Pratap Singh (Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering)
- Asha Gupta (Assistant Professor, Chemistry)
Production of Green Hydrogen
Dr. Preetam Singh emphasized that green hydrogen can primarily be produced through biomass-based or electrolyser-based routes. Given Uttar Pradesh’s abundant biomass availability, biomass-based hydrogen production is not only feasible but also more economical. The Centre will prioritize biomass-driven hydrogen synthesis while also exploring all emerging hydrogen technologies.
Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
A dedicated Incubation Centre will be established to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of green hydrogen. The Centre aims to incubate 10 startups annually, totaling 50 startups over five years. This initiative will provide mentoring, technical support, and access to research infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a robust clean-energy startup ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh.
Collaboration with Educational Institutions
Working on a hub-and-spoke model, the Centre will also support nearby engineering colleges and technical institutions. This support will include:
- Curriculum development
- Training-of-trainers (ToT)
- Mentoring
- Technical exhibitions
Additionally, the Centre will offer policy inputs to the state government on hydrogen production, storage, transport, and utilization to strengthen evidence-based policymaking.
Significance of the Project
Prof. Amit Patra, the director of IIT-BHU, described the establishment of the Centre of Excellence as a moment of pride. He stated that the Centre will open new opportunities in clean energy, green mobility, and cutting-edge research. The proposed hydrogen-powered train and buses between Varanasi and Gorakhpur represent a historic step in India’s energy transition.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence is a significant stride towards sustainable energy in Uttar Pradesh. By leveraging local resources and fostering innovation, the initiative aims to position the state as a leader in green technology and clean mobility solutions.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates regarding the Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence approved by the Uttar Pradesh government.
