Pune: PMPML Buses To Run On Hydrogen Fuel, PMC To Launch Pilot Project Soon

Pune, 24th April 2024: Pune Municipal Corporation has embarked on a significant initiative in hydrogen production. A pilot project will produce 0.6 tonnes of hydrogen, which will be utilized as fuel for Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) buses.

The pioneering hydrogen gas generation project, a collaborative effort involving Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Variate Pune Waste To Energy Private Limited, and The Green Billions Limited, will be established at the PMC premises in Ramtekdi. Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has granted permission for this endeavour, with favourable reports from institutes like CSIR – National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) and IIM supporting its feasibility. Although the project initially faced obstacles, both Central and Maharashtra State Governments have devised green hydrogen policies, prompting the PMC to seek funding from them. To further explore financial matters, the PMC convened a meeting of the Financial Technical Analysis Committee, which resulted in positive discussions regarding the project.

Progress will proceed gradually, as outlined in NEERI’s report. The initial phase will involve a pilot project, generating 0.6 tonnes of hydrogen. Upon successful completion, subsequent phases will scale up production to 200 tonnes and eventually 350 tonnes. The proposal for these phases will first be presented to the PMC Commissioner for approval. The hydrogen produced at the Ramtekdi facility will be supplied to PMPML, with assessments conducted to determine fuel savings and cost efficiencies associated with its usage.