In Short : Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water using renewable energy, is emerging as a clean fuel alternative with zero carbon emissions. India plans to introduce 35 hydrogen-powered train engines based on this technology. Though each train comes at a high cost, the initiative represents a landmark move in sustainable rail transport and supports the nation’s green transition goals.
In Detail : Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, a process that uses renewable energy like solar and wind to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike conventional hydrogen, which relies on fossil fuels, this method produces zero carbon emissions. It is increasingly being recognized as a key fuel for the future, especially in hard-to-decarbonize sectors.
India is preparing to roll out 35 train engines powered by green hydrogen, a move that will place the country among pioneers in sustainable rail transport. These engines are expected to showcase how renewable-based hydrogen can replace diesel, reducing pollution while maintaining efficiency and reliability in operations.
Each hydrogen-powered train engine will come at a significant cost, reflecting the advanced technology and infrastructure required. However, policymakers see this as an investment in cleaner mobility. The long-term benefits of reduced emissions and lower dependence on fossil fuels outweigh the higher upfront expenses.
By introducing hydrogen-powered trains, India is not only adopting global clean energy trends but also creating opportunities to develop domestic expertise. Manufacturing, maintenance, and research linked to these engines could foster innovation, job creation, and technological leadership in the emerging green hydrogen economy.
Railways are a crucial part of India’s transport system, and decarbonizing this sector has been a policy priority. Green hydrogen trains will complement ongoing electrification efforts, ensuring that the sector contributes effectively to the country’s climate commitments under international agreements like the Paris Accord.
Experts believe hydrogen trains could also reduce long-term operational costs once the technology scales up and becomes more widespread. Lower fuel costs, improved efficiency, and reduced maintenance requirements are expected to make the system more competitive against diesel locomotives over time.
The move is part of India’s larger strategy to accelerate green hydrogen adoption across multiple sectors. Beyond railways, the government envisions its use in industries such as steel, fertilizers, and heavy transport, where electrification alone may not be sufficient to achieve deep decarbonization.
This initiative also highlights India’s ambition to become a leader in the global hydrogen economy. By investing early in applications like hydrogen-powered trains, the country positions itself to export technology, build international partnerships, and attract investments in clean energy innovation.
In summary, India’s decision to introduce 35 green hydrogen-powered train engines marks a bold leap in sustainable transport. Despite the high costs, the initiative demonstrates a forward-looking approach that aligns with global climate goals, while setting the stage for a cleaner, more resilient future in both mobility and energy.
