PIB Summary- 28th May, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

“OLIVE GREEN - GOING GREEN” INDIAN ARMY RECEIVES FIRST HYDROGEN BUS

Context

The Indian Army has partnered with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to conduct demonstration trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology, showcasing a commitment to green and sustainable transport solutions.

This initiative aligns with the Army’s focus on innovation and environmental stewardship.

Analysis of the news:

• The Indian Army collaborates with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology trials, displaying commitment to green transport solutions.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff, and Mr. Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of Indian Oil.
• The Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology converts Hydrogen gas into electricity, emitting only water vapour as a byproduct, ensuring zero emissions.
• The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus has a seating capacity of 37 passengers and offers an impressive mileage of 250-300 km on a full 30 kg onboard tank.
• The Indian Army previously signed an MoU with National Thermal Power Corporation Renewable Energy Limited for Green Hydrogen based Microgrid Power Plants, aiming to provide clean electricity to troops deployed in challenging terrains along the Northern Borders.

Future Of Hydrogen Fuel:

• Clean Energy: Hydrogen fuel produces zero greenhouse gas emissions when combusted, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
• Versatility: Hydrogen can be used in various sectors, including transportation, industry, and power generation, offering versatility in energy applications.
• Energy Density: Hydrogen has a high energy density, making it suitable for long-range transportation and energy storage applications.
• Renewable Production: Hydrogen can be produced from renewable sources like wind, solar, and biomass, offering a sustainable energy solution.
• Reduced Dependence on Imports: Utilising hydrogen as a fuel reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing energy security.

Challenges:

• Production Costs: Current hydrogen production methods, such as electrolysis and steam reforming, are expensive compared to fossil fuels, hindering widespread adoption.
• Infrastructure: Developing hydrogen infrastructure, including production, storage, distribution, and refuelling stations, requires significant investment and technological advancements.
• Storage and Transportation: Hydrogen’s low density and high flammability pose challenges for storage and transportation safety.
• Scalability: Scaling up hydrogen production to meet large-scale demand while ensuring sustainability and cost-effectiveness remains a challenge.
• Technology Development: Research and development are needed to improve hydrogen production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance infrastructure capabilities.

Implications for Environmental Conservation and Energy Security of India:

• Environmental Conservation: Adoption of hydrogen fuel contributes to environmental conservation by reducing air pollution and mitigating climate change.
• Energy Security: Utilizing hydrogen as a fuel diversifies India’s energy mix, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
• Sustainable Development: Hydrogen fuel aligns with India’s goals for sustainable development, supporting cleaner energy transitions and meeting climate targets.
• Economic Opportunities: Investing in hydrogen technologies creates opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation in India’s clean energy sector.
• Global Leadership: Becoming a leader in hydrogen technology and deployment positions India as a global leader in clean energy and environmental stewardship.