India's First Hydrogen Train: A Milestone for the National Green Hydrogen Mission
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Science and Technology (Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology, Renewable Energy, Electrolysers); Environment (Climate Change, Green Hydrogen, Net Zero); Government Missions (National Green Hydrogen Mission).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (S&T, Environment, Economy): Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Awareness in the fields of Energy; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Infrastructure: Energy.
Key Highlights from the News
India's first hydrogen-powered train was successfully tested. It was manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai.
This achievement is a major milestone for India's National Green Hydrogen Mission. It is part of the larger goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
This train operates using fuel cells, which convert hydrogen into electricity. The only byproduct of this process is water, making it completely environmentally friendly.
Green Hydrogen required for this train is produced by splitting water using renewable sources through a device called an electrolyser.
A major challenge is the use of expensive metals like platinum and iridium as catalysts in fuel cells and electrolysers. Research is underway in India to find cheaper alternatives.
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