India's Milestone: Launch of Hydrogen Buses in Ladakh's Extreme Terrain
Key Ideas
  • India launches its first hydrogen fuel cell buses in Ladakh, operated at over 11,500 feet, cutting 350 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually while producing pure oxygen.
  • NTPC's project in Ladakh showcases India's move towards net-zero, with a 1.7 MW solar-powered hydrogen station that dispenses green hydrogen in extreme environments.
  • The initiative is lauded for its technological milestone, aiming to set an example for other regions and contribute to global efforts in green hydrogen innovation.
  • With 9.6 GW of green capacity under construction and alignment with India's National Hydrogen Mission, NTPC's hydrogen bus project in Ladakh is a critical step in the country's renewable energy transition.
India made history by launching its first-ever hydrogen fuel cell buses for commercial use in Ladakh's Leh district, marking a significant milestone in the country's clean energy journey. These hydrogen-powered buses, operated at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, aim to cut 350 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually while generating pure oxygen. Developed by NTPC, the project includes a solar-powered hydrogen mobility station that produces, stores, and dispenses green hydrogen entirely from renewable energy sources. The Ladakh hydrogen mobility initiative not only aims to reduce CO₂ emissions but also produce 230 metric tonnes of pure oxygen, equivalent to the oxygen yield of planting around 13,000 trees. This project is a testament to India's commitment to clean mobility and showcases the country's ability to scale renewable transport solutions in extreme environments. NTPC, India's largest power utility, is leading the way towards renewables, with plans to have 60 GW of green energy capacity by 2032. The hydrogen bus project in Ladakh is a key part of this transition and aligns with India's National Hydrogen Mission, which seeks to establish the country as a global leader in green hydrogen innovation. The successful deployment of hydrogen buses in Ladakh highlights India's progress in decarbonising public transport, particularly in challenging terrains. As NTPC and state authorities consider expanding this initiative, the Ladakh model could serve as inspiration for similar hydrogen-driven projects in other climate-sensitive and remote regions of India.
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