Hydrogen Fuel Cell – Everything You Need To Know

In 2023, India’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions increased by 6.1%, accounting for 8% of the world’s total, reflecting the world’s most populous nation’s increasing energy demands. Though this increase, India’s per capita emissions are far less than the world average, reflecting the country’s developmental challenges and the Imperative of sustainable growth initiatives. 

In an effort to address these problems, India is also spending significantly in clean energy technology, and the most promising among them is the hydrogen fuel cell. Utilization of hydrogen energy can bring India’s greenhouse gas emissions down by 50 million tonnes by the year 2030. 

This blog discusses how hydrogen fuel cells function, their types, advantages, uses, limitations, and future in India and the world.

What is a Hydrogen Fuel Cell?

A hydrogen fuel cell is an electrochemical device that uses hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, with water and heat as the only byproducts. Unlike internal combustion engines, which burn fuel, fuel cells generate power through chemical reactions, making them highly efficient and clean.

While adoption is still in its early stages, especially in markets like India, the technology has potential.

How Does a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Work?

The core of the system includes an anode, cathode, and an electrolyte membrane. Here’s how the process works:

1. Hydrogen gas enters the anode, where it’s split into electrons and protons.
2. Electrons travel through an external circuit, generating electricity.
3. Protons pass through the electrolyte to the cathode.
4. At the cathode, electrons, protons, and oxygen combine to form water and release heat.

This process is silent, efficient, and emits zero harmful gases, making it ideal for clean energy initiatives.

Types of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

There are several types of hydrogen fuel cells, each suited for different applications:

• Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC): Commonly used in vehicles due to its quick startup time and compact design.
• Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC): High efficiency, best suited for stationary power generation.
• Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC): Used in space applications; sensitive to CO2.
• Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC): Commercial use in small stationary power plants.

Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages over traditional energy sources and even some renewable technologies:

1. Zero Emissions: Only water and heat are emitted.
2. High Efficiency: Converts up to 60% of fuel energy directly into electricity.
3. Silent Operation: No moving parts make it noise-free.
4. Scalability: Can be used in vehicles, industries, or residential power systems.
5. Rapid Refueling: Hydrogen vehicles can be refueled in minutes, unlike EVs.

Applications of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells are versatile and can be integrated into various sectors:

1. Automotive

FCEVs such as the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai NEXO are commercially available in countries like Japan, South Korea, and the USA. Hydrogen buses and trucks are also being introduced to reduce carbon emissions from public transport and logistics.

2. Aerospace and Defense

NASA has used alkaline fuel cells since the 1960s to power spacecraft. The defense sector is also experimenting with fuel-cell-powered drones and submarines.

3. Industrial Use

Hydrogen fuel cells are ideal for backup power systems in data centers and factories. They offer uninterrupted power with reduced emissions.

4. Residential and Commercial Buildings

In regions like Japan and Germany, fuel cell-based micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) systems are used for domestic heating and electricity.

List of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles in India

While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are still in the early stages of adoption in India, several models have been introduced or showcased, signaling a growing interest in this clean energy technology. Below is a list of notable hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the Indian context:​

1. Toyota Mirai

• Type: Sedan
  
• Power Output: 172 BHP
  
• Torque: 407 Nm
  
• Range: Up to 650 km
  
• Refueling Time: Approximately 5 minutes
  
• Price: Estimated between ₹37-55 lakh (ex-showroom)
  
• Status: Currently part of a pilot project in collaboration with the Indian government; not yet commercially available.

2. Hyundai Nexo

• Type: SUV
  
• Power Output: 160 BHP
  
• Torque: 400 Nm
  
• Range: Up to 666 km
  
• Refueling Time: Approximately 5 minutes
  
• Status: Showcased in India. Commercial launch pending.

3. MG Euniq 7

• Type: MPV
  
• Power Output: Approximately 200 BHP
  
• Range: Up to 650 km
  
• Hydrogen Tank Capacity: 6.4 kg
  
• Refueling Time: Approximately 7 minutes
  
• Status: Showcased at Auto Expo 2023 (commercial launch details awaited.)

4. Mahindra HyAlfa

• Type: Auto-rickshaw (Three-wheeler)
  
• Fuel Type: Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine
  
• Status: Prototype stage; showcased at various events including the Delhi Auto Expo. ​

5. Tata Starbus Fuel Cell

• Type: Bus
  
• Fuel Type: Hydrogen Fuel Cell
  
• Status: Developed and delivered for pilot projects; part of India’s initiative to explore hydrogen in public transportation.

While commercial availability of these vehicles is limited, ongoing pilot projects indicate a growing commitment to integrating hydrogen fuel cell technology into the transportation sector.

Disadvantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Despite the promise, hydrogen fuel cells face some major challenges:

1. High Cost: Fuel cells are still expensive due to platinum catalysts and production costs.
2. Hydrogen Production: Most hydrogen today is produced from natural gas, which is not carbon neutral.
3. Infrastructure Limitations: Refueling stations are scarce, particularly in developing nations.
4. Storage and Transportation: Hydrogen is difficult to store and requires high-pressure tanks or cryogenic systems.

Green Hydrogen vs. Grey Hydrogen

• Grey Hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels, releasing CO2.
• Green Hydrogen is generated via electrolysis using renewable energy, with zero emissions.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), only 0.1% of global hydrogen production in 2022 was green hydrogen. However, this is expected to grow rapidly with increased investment.

India’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell Roadmap

India launched its National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023 with a budget of ₹19,744 crore. The government aims to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.

Key developments:

• IOCL and Reliance are investing in green hydrogen plants.
• Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland are testing fuel-cell buses.
• Indian Railways is piloting hydrogen-powered trains by 2025.

These initiatives will play a key role in reducing India’s import dependence and carbon emissions.

Future Outlook

Hydrogen fuel cells are likely to complement battery EVs rather than compete directly. While EVs dominate short-range urban transport, hydrogen fuel cells may be better suited for heavy-duty, long-range, and industrial applications.

According to Deloitte and Ballard Power Systems, the total cost of ownership for hydrogen trucks could become cheaper than diesel trucks by 2030, especially with falling hydrogen prices.

Summary

Hydrogen fuel cells represent a critical technology in the pursuit of clean energy. With applications ranging from vehicles to industries and buildings, they offer scalable, zero-emission alternatives to fossil fuels. While adoption barriers remain, especially around cost and infrastructure, growing global interest, government incentives, and technological innovation are paving the way for a hydrogen-powered future.

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