Chhattisgarh Mines Go Green with Hydrogen

Adani Enterprises has deployed India’s first hydrogen-powered truck for mining logistics in Chhattisgarh.

This landmark initiative, flagged off by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, signals a determined shift away from traditional diesel-powered heavy transport in the mining sector, directly addressing concerns about carbon emissions and environmental impact. The hydrogen-fuelled truck, capable of carrying up to 40 tonnes with a driving range exceeding 200 kilometres on three hydrogen tanks, will be initially utilised for coal transport from the Gare Pelma III Block to a state power plant, setting a precedent for cleaner operations in resource-intensive industries.

This deployment is a tangible outcome of Adani Enterprises’ commitment to decarbonising its operations and pioneering environmentally responsible mining practices. The company has collaborated with both Indian and international energy and automotive firms to develop these cutting-edge hydrogen-powered trucks. Chief Minister Sai, at the launch event, underscored the state’s dedication to sustainability, stating, “The launch of India’s first hydrogen-powered truck in Chhattisgarh reflects the state’s commitment to sustainability. Such initiatives will significantly reduce our carbon footprint and set a new standard for industry. Chhattisgarh is not only at the forefront in meeting the country’s electricity demands but also leads by example in adopting sustainable practices.”

The project is a synergistic effort between two subsidiaries of Adani Enterprises: Adani Natural Resources (ANR) and Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL). ANR, responsible for the mining logistics, will source the hydrogen fuel cells from ANIL, which possesses expertise in green hydrogen production, wind turbines, solar modules, and battery manufacturing. This in-house vertical integration allows for a self-reliant and potentially cost-effective pathway to decarbonise heavy transport within the Adani Group’s mining operations. Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, produces only water vapour and warm air as byproducts, eliminating the harmful emissions associated with diesel combustion.

The adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology in mining vehicles offers several compelling advantages. Unlike diesel trucks, which contribute significantly to air and noise pollution, hydrogen-powered vehicles operate with near-zero emissions and minimal noise. This transition not only improves the environmental footprint of mining operations but also enhances the working conditions for personnel on-site. Furthermore, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer comparable range and load capacity to their diesel counterparts, ensuring that operational efficiency is not compromised in the pursuit of sustainability. The rapid refuelling times associated with hydrogen vehicles, akin to conventional diesel trucks and significantly faster than battery-electric vehicles, minimise downtime and maximise productivity in demanding mining environments.

Adani Enterprises’ initiative aligns with broader national objectives of reducing carbon emissions, promoting the adoption of clean energy technologies, and fostering sustainable industrial development. The move towards hydrogen power in a critical sector like mining demonstrates the potential for heavy industries to embrace environmentally friendly solutions without sacrificing operational capabilities. As India continues its journey towards a zero-net carbon future, such pioneering projects serve as crucial steps in demonstrating the viability and scalability of green technologies across diverse industrial applications. The long-term success of this pilot project in Chhattisgarh could pave the way for the wider adoption of hydrogen-powered heavy transport in mining and other sectors across the nation, contributing to cleaner air and a more sustainable industrial landscape.

Chhattisgarh Mines Go Green with Hydrogen