KOCHI: The Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) on Wednesday announced a strategic agreement with BPCL to establish the world's first green hydrogen plant in an airport.
In a strategic move to bolster its pathbreaking green energy initiatives, CIAL, which is the world’s first airport fully powered by solar energy, has entered into a memorandum of Understanding with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for setting up a green hydrogen plant in the premises of the airport.
"This collaborative effort, combining technological prowess and infrastructure, will result in the world’s first green hydrogen plant and fueling station located within an airport setting," top officials said. Green hydrogen, produced from water using renewable energy sources, is recognized as a future fuel and aligns with zero-carbon energy strategies.
The agreement for the green hydrogen plant was signed at a function held at Legislative Complex, Thiruvananthapuram in the presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is also the chairman, CIAL.
CIAL, which has been renowned for its effective deployment of green energy through the installation of big solar plants and a hydel station now has a cumulative installed capacity of 50 MW producing 200,000 units of power a day. Ever since the installation of its first plant with a capacity of 12 MW, it has been augmenting its capabilities and now inked an MoU for a strategic collaboration with BPCL for setting up a 1000 KW pilot project at the airport premises.
Under the agreement, BPCL will oversee the establishment of the integrated green hydrogen plant and fueling station at Kochi Airport, providing technology and managing the operations. CIAL will contribute suitable land, water, and green energy resources. The initial output of the plant will be utilized for powering vehicles within the airport.
“As pioneers in sustainable aviation, CIAL is happy to start a groundbreaking journey with BPCL towards establishing the country's first Green Hydrogen plant in an airport at CIAL”, said CIAL managing director S Suhas. He also said that this strategic collaboration underscores CIAL’s commitment to green energy and propels closer towards a zero-carbon future in the aviation landscape.
BPCL's chairman & managing director G Krishnakumar highlighted the collaboration as a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable solutions. He underscored the significance of innovation and partnership in driving meaningful change, emphasizing BPCL's commitment to India's energy independence through initiatives like 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' as evidenced by the indigenous electrolyser showcased at India Energy Week 2024 by BPCL.
P Rajeeve, minister for industries, Dr V Venu, chief secretary, Kerala, K R Jyothilal, additional chief secretary, general administration & power, Suman Billa, principal secretary, industries and NORKA, V R K Gupta, director (finance), BPCL, among others were also present during the event.