Pioneering Green Hydrogen Initiatives in Southern India
The Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is contemplating the creation of green hydrogen generation units in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.These potential developments form part of the company’s proposed investments amounting to ₹54,000 crore. In pursuit of land and electricity for the project, the public sector oil giant is engaging in discussions with the state governments.
According to V C Asokan, Executive Director & State Head of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, the corporation has already initiated discussions with the Tamil Nadu government and has scheduled subsequent meetings with state officials to advance the dialogue. The IOC has demonstrated a proactive approach in exploring green hydrogen, frequently touted as the fuel of the future. At its R&D centre, the company operates a hydrogen dispensing station and has piloted 15 fuel cell electric buses.
Deciphering the Costs
With respect to the estimated cost of the envisaged unit in Tamil Nadu, Asokan clarified that the investment would be dictated by the requirements of the users. For instance, an investment nearing ₹50 crore could suffice to cater to approximately 10-12 fuel cell buses.
A Broader Vision for Green Energy
In a broader sense, IOC is in the process of setting up a 7 KTPA green hydrogen capacity at its Panipat refinery. Moreover, a hydrogen dispensing demonstration facility has been installed at its Baroda refinery in Gujarat.
Additionally, the company aims to establish 300 additional EV charging stations in Tamil Nadu during the current fiscal year. This would raise the total number of EV stations in the state to 700.
The company’s sweeping investment plan for Tamil Nadu encompasses a new grassroots refinery at Nagapattinam, requiring an investment of ₹35,580 crore. Other initiatives include a POL terminal at Asanur, a captive POL/LPG jetty at Kamrajar Port, and the establishment of an Integrated Lubes Complex at Ammulvoyyal village.
Overcoming Challenges and Advancing Green Hydrogen
While green hydrogen promises to play a substantial role in achieving sustainability goals due to its renewable production process and its clean fuel capabilities, the high cost of electrolysis and the necessity for significant infrastructural development pose challenges to green hydrogen production. To tackle these obstacles, cooperation between governments, industry players, and research institutions is imperative, facilitating innovation, cost reduction, and the creation of a supportive regulatory framework.
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