The Indian government has awarded a contract to Gensol Engineering, in collaboration with Matrix Gas & Renewables, to develop the country's first bio-hydrogen project. This project, valued at Rs 164 crore, is part of India's National Green Hydrogen Mission. The facility will process 25 tonnes of bio-waste daily, producing 1 tonne of green hydrogen through advanced gasification technology. The project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
What is Bio-Hydrogen?
Bio-hydrogen is a form of hydrogen produced from organic materials such as plant matter, food waste, and certain microorganisms. Unlike conventional hydrogen production, which relies on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, bio-hydrogen comes from renewable sources, making it a cleaner and more sustainable option. There are several methods of producing bio-hydrogen:
- Biophotolysis: Uses sunlight to split water molecules in algae or other organisms, releasing hydrogen.
- Dark Fermentation: Bacteria break down organic material without oxygen, producing hydrogen as a byproduct.
In this Indian project, Gensol Engineering will employ a Plasma-Induced Radiant Energy-Based Gasification System (GH2-PREGS) to convert carbon-based waste into hydrogen gas.
Why is Bio-Hydrogen Important for India?
India is actively working to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and shift towards greener energy alternatives. The National Green Hydrogen Mission plays a crucial role in this transition. Given the large amounts of agricultural waste India generates each year, bio-hydrogen presents a promising solution to produce clean energy while reducing environmental pollution. This cleaner energy source is especially valuable for heavy industries like steel and cement, which face challenges in lowering emissions.
Additionally, bio-hydrogen production can have a positive impact on rural communities by creating local plants that turn farm waste into energy, leading to job creation and access to cleaner energy.
Opportunities in India’s Bio-Hydrogen Sector
With approximately 380 million tonnes of agricultural waste generated annually, India has significant potential for bio-hydrogen production. Converting waste into clean energy not only helps reduce pollution but also supports industries in becoming more sustainable. For hard-to-decarbonize sectors like steel and cement, bio-hydrogen offers a way to reduce emissions and contribute to a greener future.
