CRUT Partners with NTPC and GRIDCO to Launch Hydrogen-Powered Buses in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In a major step towards sustainable public transportation, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Monday by NTPC Limited, GRIDCO Limited, and Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT). This collaboration is set to bring hydrogen-powered buses to Odisha, revolutionizing the state’s transit system with green energy technology.

The MoU, valid for five years, delineates the roles of each entity: NTPC will oversee hydrogen production, GRIDCO will ensure a renewable energy supply, and CRUT will manage the operation of the hydrogen-powered bus fleet. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) National Green Hydrogen Mission and Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022.

The pilot project, supported by a ₹19.5 crore investment from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), will introduce three hydrogen fuel cell buses to replace traditional diesel-powered buses. Each bus, with a seating capacity of 42 passengers, will feature a 150-kW drive motor and 80-kW fuel cell capacity. With a hydrogen fuel capacity of 58 kg, the buses will have a range of 600 km and a mileage of 12 km per kg.

To facilitate operations, NTPC will establish a hydrogen production plant at the Gadakana depot using green hydrogen generated from the existing Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP). GRIDCO, meanwhile, will provide renewable energy connectivity for the project and ensure access to essential resources like potable water.

This initiative is a pivotal step in reducing carbon emissions, enhancing operational efficiency, and transitioning Odisha’s public transport towards a zero-emission policy. The use of hydrogen-powered buses is expected to significantly lower the dependency on fossil fuels, aligning with NTPC’s diversification into renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies.

CRUT, operating under the Housing & Urban Development Department, has emphasized the transformational impact of this project on public transport in the state. “This is a remarkable milestone that sets the stage for a cleaner, greener, and more efficient public transportation system,” a CRUT release stated.

As Odisha takes a lead in adopting hydrogen-powered transit, this project is poised to inspire similar initiatives across India, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable urban mobility. The integration of renewable energy with cutting-edge technology reaffirms Odisha’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering innovation in public services.