(Image: DhruvStar Industry Insights | Original Artwork)
The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a dedicated Centre of Excellence in Green Hydrogen at IIT-BHU, Varanasi, under the UP Green Hydrogen Policy-2024. The initiative aims to accelerate research, innovation, clean-mobility testing, and capacity building in green hydrogen technologies within the state.
Institutional Collaboration & Objectives
The Centre will be jointly developed by:
- IIT-BHU (lead institution)
- Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology (MMMUT), Gorakhpur
UPNEDA (Uttar Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Development Agency) has granted formal approval with a mandate to support:
- Research and technology development
- Capacity building for engineers and faculty
- Industrial applications of hydrogen
- Policy inputs for green hydrogen production, storage and utilisation
Nearly 50% of the infrastructure will be developed at MMMUT, contributing to the eastern UP clean energy ecosystem.
Hydrogen Mobility: Train & Bus Pilots
An important feature is UP’s plan to pilot hydrogen-powered transportation:
- Hydrogen-fuelled train between Varanasi and Gorakhpur (with the Ministry of Railways)
- Hydrogen buses by UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) on the same corridor
These pilots will enable real-world testing of:
- Hydrogen storage and transport
- Operational performance
- End-use mobility applications
This corridor could become one of India’s first hydrogen mobility testbeds.
Focus on Biomass-Based Hydrogen & Innovation Hub
Biomass-based hydrogen production will be prioritised due to its cost-effectiveness and local viability. Research will also cover electrolyser-based and other emerging hydrogen technologies.
The Centre will additionally set up an incubation hub to support:
- Clean energy startups
- Technology demonstration
- Entrepreneurship in hydrogen and related domains
A hub-and-spoke model will connect nearby engineering colleges for curriculum support, faculty training, mentoring, and exposure to hydrogen technologies.
DhruvStar Industry Insights: What It Means for the Energy Sector in India
1) UP Emerges as a Hydrogen Innovation Zone
The Varanasi-Gorakhpur corridor can become a landmark testbed for hydrogen mobility and biomass-based hydrogen technologies.
2) Localised Supply Chains Get a Boost
Prioritising biomass-based hydrogen creates opportunities for regional feedstock networks, electrolyser deployment, and clean mobility OEMs.
3) Stronger Talent & Startup Pipeline
The incubation hub-and-spoke model will help build a skilled workforce and support early-stage hydrogen ventures in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
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