OMC Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) have collaborated in order to scale up alkaline electrolyser technology which is for the production of green hydrogen. And at present, electrolyser plants are imported.

This is a first of its kind initiative to support the country's commitment to achieve renewable energy targets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Refineries use large quantities of hydrogen for de-sulphurisation to make petrol, diesel and other chemicals. Presently, hydrogen is made at the refinery via steam reforming of natural gas, but this results in high CO2 emission. Consequently, refiners are setting up large scale electrolysers to produce green hydrogen from water and thereby decarbonise hydrogen production.

"We have been extensively leveraging technology in all our activities," BPCL Chairman and Managing Director Arun Kumar Singh said.

"Today, through collaboration with BARC, we intend to scale up 'Indigenous Alkaline Electrolyser Technology' and look forward to commercialising it for large use especially in refineries. This will be another step towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in our journey for achieving net zero emissions by 2040."

Bharat Petroleum has plans to expand its portfolio of renewable energy with solar, wind and biofuels. Furthermore, the company intends to meet power requirement for new projects in its refineries, primarily from renewable sources.