The World’s Most Powerful Hydrogen Engine

At the heart of India’s green hydrogen train revolution is its indigenously developed hydrogen engine. Capable of delivering 1200 horsepower, this engine far surpasses global standards, with most hydrogen engines operating at 500 to 600 horsepower. Designed by the Research, Design, and Standard Organisation (RDSO) in Lucknow, this powerful locomotive offers a glimpse into India’s innovative approach to overcoming the challenges posed by varied terrains in rail travel. The RDSO’s efforts ensure that this engine’s performance is both reliable and scalable for broader applications.

“Hydrogen for Heritage” Pilot Project

In 2023, the Indian government unveiled the “Hydrogen for Heritage” project, an initiative that seeks to integrate hydrogen fuel cell trains into India’s heritage and hill routes. The 2023-24 Union Budget has allocated ₹2,800 crore to develop 35 hydrogen-powered trains, with an additional ₹600 crore earmarked for the supporting infrastructure. The project’s first phase will include retrofitting existing Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains with green hydrogen fuel cells, a move that is set to revolutionize the way trains are powered in these scenic, often hard-to-reach areas.

The first trial of this hydrogen-powered DEMU train is expected to take place in March 2025 along the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is currently manufacturing the coaches for this pilot train, while infrastructure firms work on setting up the refueling systems and related ground-level infrastructure. With Jhajjar district in Haryana already home to a 1 MW electrolyser plant, the region is poised to supply the green hydrogen needed to fuel these trains, producing around 420 kilograms of hydrogen per day.

The Economics of Hydrogen Trains: Long-Term Benefits

While the initial costs of implementing hydrogen-powered trains might seem high due to the need for advanced technology, green hydrogen production, and new infrastructure, the long-term benefits promise to be substantial. Hydrogen-powered trains offer significant environmental advantages, particularly in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting down on carbon emissions. Additionally, these trains do not require electrified tracks, making them a cost-effective solution for non-electrified routes where the installation of overhead cables would be expensive and time-consuming.

Experts believe that once large-scale operations are in full swing, the costs of producing and using green hydrogen will decrease, making it an even more viable option for the Indian Railways. These efficiencies will result in a more sustainable and economically attractive rail system in the long run.

Aligning with India’s Green Hydrogen Mission

The hydrogen-powered train project is closely aligned with India’s broader National Green Hydrogen Mission, which was approved by the government in January 2023. This mission aims to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and achieve energy independence by 2047, with a focus on producing green hydrogen. With an initial budget of ₹19,744 crore, the mission seeks to bolster domestic green hydrogen production, support related pilot projects, and invest in R&D and infrastructure development.

India’s ambitious goal is to produce five million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, with the support of an expanded renewable energy ecosystem and green hydrogen hubs. The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a key element of India’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, positioning the country as a leader in clean energy initiatives.

Global Insights and India’s Vision

India’s move towards hydrogen-powered trains mirrors similar efforts being made globally. In Germany, Alstom’s Coradia iLint hydrogen-powered trains have been in commercial operation since 2018, setting a global standard for sustainable rail transport. Other countries like Canada, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and several European nations are also experimenting with hydrogen trains, reflecting a global shift towards cleaner rail options.

In addition, Siemens Mobility’s Mireo Plus H trains, which are capable of traveling up to 1200 kilometers, are already in use in regions like Berlin-Brandenburg and Bavaria. These international developments indicate a clear trend in rail transport towards hydrogen as a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel.

A Clean Path Forward for India

India’s hydrogen-powered train initiative is a bold step towards a more sustainable and efficient future. The successful implementation of this project will not only reduce the country’s carbon footprint but also help it move closer to its goals of energy independence and net-zero emissions.

As trial runs along the Jind-Sonipat route and other parts of India begin, the country is poised to set a new global benchmark for eco-friendly transportation. With ongoing investments in technology, infrastructure, and local manufacturing, India’s green hydrogen-powered trains could lead the way in transforming the global rail industry, ensuring that future generations enjoy a cleaner, more sustainable transport system.

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The conclave, taking place from January 28 to 29, will kick off with a grand reception at Bhubaneswar Airport, where PM Modi will be welcomed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. Following the warm welcome, the Prime Minister will head to the event venue at Janata Maidan to officially launch the summit.

The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is designed to position the state as a central player in India’s industrial growth, in alignment with the Purvodaya Vision. The state’s ambition is to emerge as a leading investment hub and industrial powerhouse, benefiting from its rich resources and strategic location.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the inauguration of the Make in Odisha Exhibition, which will showcase the state’s accomplishments in creating a vibrant industrial ecosystem. This exhibition will provide a platform for interaction between industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, focusing on the opportunities for investment and collaboration in Odisha.

The conclave is expected to attract over 7,500 investors from across the globe. It will feature a range of activities including CEOs and Leaders’ Roundtables, sectoral discussions, B2B meetings, and policy dialogues. These sessions will focus on key sectors such as Information Technology (IT), renewable energy, textiles, chemicals, and food processing.

In addition to local participants, 12 countries—Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, Poland, and Cuba among them—have been invited as “Countries of Focus.” These nations will explore potential investment opportunities in Odisha, further enhancing the global outreach of the conclave.

The Odisha government is targeting an impressive Rs 5 lakh crore in investments, with plans to sign 100 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the event. However, Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has emphasized that the focus will not just be on MoUs but on ensuring the effective implementation of projects that can drive sustainable industrial growth.

Through the conclave, Odisha aims to accelerate its journey toward becoming a global industrial hub, working towards its vision of a “Samrudh Odisha” by 2036 and contributing to the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is poised to be a defining moment in the state’s industrial transformation, fostering opportunities for both domestic and international investments.

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In an effort to reduce its dependency on China, the dominant player in the global rare earth market, India has sought to diversify its supply chain. This includes forging strategic partnerships with countries in the US, Latin America, Africa, and notably, Kazakhstan—an emerging key partner with vast rare earth reserves.

Kazakhstan’s rare earth resources, combined with its geographical proximity to India, present a compelling case for strengthening bilateral ties and securing a steady supply of these crucial materials. While India holds the fifth-largest reserves of rare earths globally, it lacks the advanced extraction technologies required for self-sufficiency, leaving it vulnerable to supply disruptions. Kazakhstan’s vast and untapped reserves could play a pivotal role in alleviating this dependency and supporting India’s clean energy goals.

The global race to secure rare earths is intensifying, with countries worldwide seeking to access these materials for various industries, from renewable energy and electronics to defense and nuclear technology. Rare earth elements are indispensable in manufacturing a range of products, including specialized glass, ceramics, alloys, and catalysts. They are also key in advancing hydrogen storage technologies and electronic devices, underscoring their strategic importance for the future economy.

To solidify these efforts, India has proposed the establishment of an India-Central Asia Rare Earths Forum. This initiative, discussed at the Second India-Central Asia National Security Advisors (NSAs) meeting, aims to create transparent and mutually beneficial partnerships in the rare earth sector. By enhancing cooperation with Central Asian countries, particularly Kazakhstan, India seeks to address its supply chain vulnerabilities and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change through sustainable energy solutions.

Central Asia, a region rich in critical minerals, represents a treasure trove of resources vital for global industries. The region holds substantial shares of the world’s manganese, chromium, lead, zinc, and titanium reserves. Kazakhstan, with its strategic location and abundant natural resources, is poised to become a major player in the global rare earth market. The country’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has aptly referred to critical minerals as the “new oil,” highlighting their growing importance in the global economy.

However, despite the enormous potential of Central Asia, India faces logistical challenges in transporting rare earths from this landlocked region. To fully realize the benefits of these partnerships, India must address infrastructure and connectivity issues to facilitate the smooth flow of resources.

The proposed Rare Earths Forum represents an important step towards overcoming these challenges. By fostering stronger ties between India and Kazakhstan, as well as other Central Asian nations, this initiative seeks to build a sustainable and mutually beneficial future. This collaboration holds the promise of enhancing India’s energy security, accelerating its renewable energy transition, and ensuring a reliable supply of rare earths for the global market.

As the world moves toward a cleaner, greener future, the role of strategic partnerships in securing critical resources like rare earths will only grow in importance. Kazakhstan’s abundant reserves, combined with India’s energy ambitions, offer a unique opportunity to drive forward the global clean energy agenda while strengthening geopolitical ties in the region.

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The rebranding signifies a broader vision for GEON, moving beyond batteries to offer a comprehensive range of green energy products and services. The company is now positioning itself as a key player in the growing energy space, which includes electric vehicle (EV) batteries, energy storage systems, and cutting-edge electronics and software to support the entire energy ecosystem.

In line with its new direction, GEON has committed to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities with an investment of Rs 300 crore. A new facility in Chakan, Pune, is set to double the company’s manufacturing capacity and is part of its broader goal to meet the increasing demand for advanced energy solutions in India and beyond.

“Green Energy On (GEON) reflects our expansive vision for the future of green energy—powering everything from factories to homes,” stated the company in a press release. GEON’s product portfolio now includes state-of-the-art EV solutions with battery packs designed for a wide range of vehicles, from two-wheelers to commercial vehicles. These products incorporate proprietary cell technology and advanced thermal management systems to ensure optimal performance.

The rebrand comes at a time when India is projected to make significant investments in green energy, with a report by the World Economic Forum indicating that the country will invest more than USD 35 billion annually in advanced energy solutions by 2030. Battery storage alone is expected to attract investments of USD 9-10 billion annually during this period.

“We believe the transition from Battrixx to GEON embodies our commitment to innovative manufacturing and intelligent green energy solutions that will power a sustainable, greener tomorrow,” said Anand Kabra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of GEON. “This evolution goes beyond just a name change—it reflects our determination to become a global leader in clean, innovative energy solutions.”

Despite the rebranding, GEON has assured its customers that all current products and services will continue uninterrupted. The company has also pledged to enhance its support and service capabilities to meet the growing demand for its green energy offerings.

With its reimagined identity and ambitious investment plans, GEON aims to position itself at the forefront of the global green energy revolution, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.

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Ambitious Solar Power Goals

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to drive the transition to solar energy by providing substantial capital cost subsidies, reducing payback periods by 4-5 years, and making it more affordable for households across India to adopt rooftop solar. This initiative is designed to not only reduce electricity costs for consumers but also significantly contribute to India’s energy transition, enabling cleaner and more sustainable power sources.

According to a report by SBI Capital Markets, the PM-SGMBY scheme has the potential to create an ecosystem worth Rs 1.2 trillion. The main beneficiaries of this boom will be manufacturers of essential solar components, such as modules, inverters, mounting equipment, and electrical components, alongside project developers and EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) players.

Breaking Down the Rs 1.2 Trillion Opportunity

The report highlights that the solar module segment will account for the largest share of this opportunity, estimated at Rs 480 billion. This will be followed by Rs 275 billion for inverters, Rs 200 billion for electrical components, and Rs 90 billion for mounting structures. Additionally, project developers and EPC players are expected to benefit significantly from the capital expenditure model, where customers finance and own solar installations in exchange for subsidies.

This robust ecosystem is set to fuel the growth of India’s solar energy sector, offering a wealth of opportunities for manufacturers, service providers, and developers alike. The favorable policy environment, along with the growing focus on sustainability, positions India to become a key player in the global solar energy market.

The Residential Solar Surge

Residential rooftop solar installations are expected to be the driving force behind this boom. As electricity tariffs continue to rise in several states, homeowners are increasingly turning to solar solutions to reduce their energy costs. States with high residential electricity tariffs and favorable net metering policies are expected to see the highest adoption rates.

Additionally, the falling cost of solar modules and EPC services is making solar installations more accessible to a broader segment of the population. As these costs continue to decline, the residential solar market is set for exponential growth, with annual non-utility solar installations—encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial (C&I) segments—projected to reach 20 GW by FY27.

Key States Driving Growth

Currently, five states dominate India’s solar rooftop capacity, accounting for 70% of the total installed capacity. Gujarat leads the pack with 4,822 MW, followed by Maharashtra (2,847 MW), Rajasthan (1,415 MW), Kerala (966 MW), and Tamil Nadu (876 MW). These states are expected to continue their leadership in solar adoption due to their favorable policies, industrialization, and high electricity tariffs.

As solar energy becomes more accessible and affordable, the market for non-utility solar installations is expanding across the country. The combination of state-level incentives, declining costs of solar technology, and favorable metering policies will likely drive further adoption of rooftop solar across India’s residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

Conclusion

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a game-changer for India’s solar power sector. With its focus on residential rooftop installations and a Rs 1.2 trillion ecosystem waiting to be unlocked, the initiative is set to drive a major shift towards clean energy. The reduction in payback periods, combined with state incentives and the falling cost of solar technology, will make rooftop solar a viable and attractive option for millions of Indian households. As more states adopt favorable policies, India is on track to become a global leader in solar energy, powering its future with the sun.

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Over the next three days, the summit will serve as a hub for high-level discussions with energy policymakers and industry leaders, focusing on pathways to energy transition and the creation of circular economies. With 13 heads of state and over 140 ministers and government officials in attendance, the event aims to foster discussions that will drive socioeconomic and technological progress and tap into a potential $10 trillion economic transformation opportunity.

The summit is packed with 34 dedicated sessions and more than 70 speakers, all working to accelerate sustainable development and stimulate impactful action. Key topics will include the integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to build a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous global future.

Taking place in a region that is prioritizing energy transformation, with an emphasis on renewable sources like solar energy, the summit is expected to attract over 30,000 attendees, including government representatives, business leaders, and sustainability advocates from across the world.

The event will showcase the latest innovations in renewable energy, AI, climate technology, circular economy principles, green financing, and sustainable cities. It also features interactive exhibits and valuable networking opportunities, with more than 400 exhibitors presenting solutions in solar energy, eMobility, clean energy, water, and waste management.

In addition, the summit will offer seven specialized conference streams, covering the full spectrum of the energy ecosystem. These will provide deep insights into the latest trends and developments in Solar & Clean Energy, Water, EcoWASTE, Sustainable Cities, Green Finance, eMobility, and the pathways to achieving a 1.5°C global warming limit. This event promises to be a key milestone in driving forward global sustainability and energy transformation.

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In his address, Goyal emphasized that while Product Linked Incentives (PLIs) and subsidies can play a crucial role in initiating the sector, they are not sustainable in the long term for the clean energy industry. He stressed that the clean energy sector must evolve to become self-sustaining and independent of government support.

“The PLI scheme can only help kickstart the sector, but the clean energy sector must strive to become self-sustaining,” Goyal remarked, adding that the cleantech sector should aim for independence from government backing.

He called on the participants at the forum to innovate and scale up manufacturing in India. According to Goyal, the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform will offer Indian firms an opportunity to collaborate, co-innovate, and access financing. The platform will also allow for sharing ideas, technologies, and resources, positioning India as a prominent global leader in sustainability and the cleantech sector.

Additionally, Goyal expressed confidence that the ambitious clean energy target set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi – 500 Gigawatts of clean energy by 2030 – could be met. He highlighted India’s impressive progress in the energy sector, noting that the country has already exceeded expectations by achieving its renewable energy target in 2022, eight years ahead of schedule. With the installation of 200 Gigawatts of clean energy, India is now well on track to meet the 500 Gigawatt goal.

India’s success in this area, Goyal explained, is a result of its well-connected national grid, which is the largest of its kind in the world. He also credited Gujarat for being a pioneer in adopting solar power, recognizing the state’s role in the broader national effort to scale up renewable energy sources.

The affordability of solar power in India, Goyal stated, can largely be attributed to the transparency fostered by Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. Through honest auctions and fostering fair competition, the cost of solar energy has decreased significantly.

In conclusion, Goyal reiterated that the Government’s renewable energy program is centered around the principles of 3S: speed, scale, and skill, which have driven the success of the country’s clean energy initiatives.

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