State-run engineering giant Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has taken a major step toward clean mobility with the signing of a 10-year exclusive memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Singapore-based Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies. The collaboration aims to develop hydrogen fuel cell-based railway locomotives, offering a zero-emission alternative to conventional diesel and electric trains.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology: A Sustainable Leap
Hydrogen fuel cell-based rolling stock utilizes onboard hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, emitting only water vapor and heat as byproducts. This makes it a clean, sustainable, and efficient alternative to traditional propulsion systems, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector.
For Indian Railways, which is in the midst of a massive modernization drive, hydrogen-powered trains could provide an eco-friendly option for long-distance and high-horsepower transportation needs.
Strategic Collaboration with Horizon
- MoU Duration: 10 years (exclusive partnership)
- Partner Company: Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies, Singapore (founded in 2003, specializes in hydrogen fuel cells for heavy-duty transportation and industrial applications)
- Focus: Development of hydrogen-powered locomotives tailored to India’s railway sector
This partnership gives BHEL access to global expertise in hydrogen fuel cells, complementing its existing strengths in propulsion systems and electric locomotives.
BHEL’s Hydrogen Push
BHEL has been actively investing in the hydrogen value chain, from developing fuel cell technologies to exploring hydrogen-powered industrial and transportation solutions. The PSU has also been working with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to target emerging opportunities in:
- High-horsepower locomotives
- Battery-powered and hydrogen-powered locomotives
- High-speed trainsets
- Signaling and railway electrification systems
The collaboration with Horizon strengthens BHEL’s vision to diversify into next-generation clean mobility technologies.
Market Opportunity
India’s ongoing push for sustainable transportation and decarbonization of its railway network creates a significant market opportunity. Hydrogen-based locomotives can:
- Reduce dependence on fossil fuels
- Align with India’s net-zero emissions goal for 2070
- Support Indian Railways’ vision to become a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030
BHEL’s entry into hydrogen rolling stock development positions it as a key enabler of this transition, while also expanding its presence in the rapidly evolving railway sector.
Summary
- BHEL has signed a 10-year exclusive MoU with Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies (Singapore) to develop hydrogen-powered trains.
- The initiative will deliver zero-emission rolling stock, using fuel cells that emit only water vapor and heat.
- The move complements BHEL’s strengths in propulsion and locomotives, while helping Indian Railways accelerate its sustainability and modernization goals.
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