GRIDCO, NTPC, and CRUT Collaborate on the Hydrogen Bus Project

News, 24 December 2024

NTPC Limited, GRIDCO Limited, and Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) inked a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the deployment of Green Energy Technologies in Odisha, marking a significant advancement in environmentally friendly transportation options in the state.
An official news release states that the goal of this cooperative initiative is to introduce cutting-edge green energy solutions throughout the state, with a particular emphasis on transforming the public transportation system.

The three parties’ roles and obligations are outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding, which will be in effect for the next five years. GRIDCO will guarantee the supply of renewable energy, NTPC will concentrate on producing hydrogen, and CRUT will oversee the operation of the buses that run on hydrogen.

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), in accordance with the National Green Hydrogen Mission, has published Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot Projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector.

An investment of Rs. 19.5 crores has been made by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). in the pilot project, which will help make the switch from fossil fuel-powered buses to environmentally friendly hydrogen-powered buses easier.

Leading the transition to a zero-emission policy is CRUT, which is part of the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD) of the Government of Odisha, in collaboration with GRIDCO (the Energy Department, Government of Odisha). The objectives of this program are to lower carbon emissions, increase operational effectiveness, and raise the standard of state bus services.

Important aspects of the project:

–Hydrogen-Powered Bus Fleet: NTPC plans to deploy three hydrogen fuel cell buses. These buses are intended to take the place of conventional diesel buses in public transportation, offering a more environmentally friendly option. The three fuel cell green buses are specified to have an 80 kW fuel cell capacity, a 150 kW drive motor, and seating for 42 passengers. A fuel capacity of 58 kg gives each bus a range of 600 km and a mileage of 12 km per kg.
–Hydrogen Production Plant: Using the current Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for green hydrogen generation, NTPC will set up a hydrogen production plant at the CRUT Gadakana depot This will help meet the hydrogen buses’ renewable energy needs.

-Renewable Energy Supply: NTPC Renewable Energy has been asked to lease two acres of land from the GA & PG department by the energy department. In addition to facilitating the delivery of drinkable water (12 CUM/day), GRIDCO will offer 2 MW of connectivity to the closest substation, including the fixed cost and security deposit.

In addition to guaranteeing a cleaner, more sustainable form of transportation, this initiative represents a major step in lowering Odisha’s carbon footprint. In addition to leading the way in clean public transportation, Odisha is supporting the Indian government’s initiatives to combat climate change and advance renewable energy by incorporating green hydrogen as a fuel source.

This project demonstrates Odisha’s dedication to a green future in light of the increased emphasis on environmental preservation and clean energy around the world. This project’s successful completion will make a substantial contribution to India’s shift to renewable energy.