India is making strides in sustainable transportation through the introduction of green hydrogen-powered trains. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to renewable energy and aims to transform the Indian Railways. The government’s focus on indigenous technology and infrastructure development is very important in this transition.
India’s Hydrogen Engine Development
- India has developed a powerful hydrogen-powered engine that produces 1200 horsepower.
- This exceeds the capabilities of existing global hydrogen engines, which typically operate between 500 and 600 horsepower.
- The Research, Design, and Standard Organisation (RDSO) based in Lucknow is spearheading this innovation.
- The enhanced power ensures reliable performance across diverse terrains, marking advancement in rail technology.
Hydrogen for Heritage Project
- Launched in 2023, the Hydrogen for Heritage project aims to introduce 35 hydrogen fuel cell trains.
- The initiative has a budget of ₹2,800 crore, with an additional ₹600 crore allocated for supporting infrastructure.
- Each train costs approximately ₹80 crore, while developing the necessary ground infrastructure is estimated at ₹60 crore.
- A pilot project will retrofit existing Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains with hydrogen technology, with trials expected to start in March 2025.
Infrastructure for Hydrogen Production
The Jhajjar district in Haryana hosts an electrolyser plant capable of producing 420 kilograms of green hydrogen daily. A dedicated refuelling system will support the operation of hydrogen trains, storing up to 3000 kilograms of hydrogen. This infrastructure is crucial for the successful implementation of the hydrogen train pilot project.
Financial Implications and Long-Term Benefits
Initial investments in hydrogen-powered trains may seem high due to technology and infrastructure costs. However, experts predict that costs will decrease with large-scale operations. Hydrogen fuel offers environmental benefits and potential long-term savings. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions, ultimately leading to greater efficiency for Indian Railways.
National Green Hydrogen Mission
India’s hydrogen train initiative aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission, approved in January 2023. The mission aims for energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070. With an initial budget of ₹19,744 crore, the mission focuses on increasing domestic green hydrogen production and developing related infrastructure. It aims to produce five million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
Global Context of Hydrogen Trains
Internationally, hydrogen-powered trains are gaining traction. Germany’s Alstom Coradia iLint has been in commercial service since 2018, with successful trials in various countries. Siemens Mobility’s Mireo Plus H trains are operational in Germany as well. These developments indicate a global shift towards cleaner rail transport, setting a benchmark for India’s hydrogen initiative.
Future Prospects
India’s green hydrogen-powered train programme represents leap towards sustainable transport. Successful trials will pave the way for broader implementation across the rail network. Continued investment in technology and infrastructure will enhance India’s position as a leader in eco-friendly transportation.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of the National Green Hydrogen Mission on India’s energy independence goals.
- Estimate the potential environmental benefits of transitioning to hydrogen-powered trains in India.
- Point out the challenges India may face in scaling up hydrogen production for transportation needs.
- What are the key features of hydrogen-powered trains? How do they compare with traditional diesel trains in terms of efficiency and emissions?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of the National Green Hydrogen Mission on India’s energy independence goals.
- Aims for energy independence by 2047, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
- Initial budget of ₹19,744 crore targets increased domestic green hydrogen production.
- Promotes research and infrastructure development for hydrogen technology.
- Encourages local manufacturing, reducing import dependence on energy technologies.
- Supports the transition to a clean energy economy, aligning with net-zero emissions goals.
2. Estimate the potential environmental benefits of transitioning to hydrogen-powered trains in India.
- Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Hydrogen trains produce zero tailpipe emissions, improving air quality.
- Lower carbon footprint compared to traditional diesel trains.
- Encourages renewable energy use in hydrogen production, enhancing sustainability.
- Potential to reduce noise pollution associated with diesel engines.
3. Point out the challenges India may face in scaling up hydrogen production for transportation needs.
- High initial investment costs for hydrogen production infrastructure.
- Need for advanced technology and skilled workforce for efficient production.
- Dependence on renewable energy sources for sustainable hydrogen production.
- Logistical challenges in transporting and storing hydrogen safely.
- Regulatory hurdles and lack of established market for hydrogen fuel.
4. What are the key features of hydrogen-powered trains? How do they compare with traditional diesel trains in terms of efficiency and emissions?
- Hydrogen trains produce zero emissions, while diesel trains emit CO2 and pollutants.
- Hydrogen engines can deliver high power (1200 horsepower), enhancing performance.
- Hydrogen trains can operate on non-electrified routes, reducing infrastructure costs.
- Overall efficiency of hydrogen trains is expected to improve with scale.
- Hydrogen trains have quieter operations compared to noisy diesel engines.
