CIAL and BPCL Collaborate to Establish World's First Green Hydrogen Plant at Cochin Airport

In a pioneering move to amplify their green energy initiatives, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), the world's first fully solar-powered airport, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to establish the world's inaugural Green Hydrogen plant within an airport setting. This strategic collaboration marks a milestone in sustainable aviation, combining CIAL's expertise in green energy deployment with BPCL's technological prowess, all in pursuit of a zero-carbon future.

The MoU exchange ceremony for the groundbreaking Green Hydrogen plant took place at the Legislative Complex in Thiruvananthapuram, graced by the presence of Sri. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala & Chairman, CIAL. Renowned for its effective deployment of green energy, CIAL boasts a cumulative installed capacity of 50 MW, producing an impressive two hundred thousand units of power daily. From its initial 12 MW capacity plant, CIAL has continually expanded its capabilities, now signing an MoU for a strategic collaboration with BPCL for a 1000 KW pilot project at the airport premises.

Under this strategic agreement, BPCL will spearhead the establishment of an integrated Green Hydrogen plant and fueling station at Kochi Airport, providing technological expertise and overseeing operations. CIAL, in turn, will contribute suitable land, water, and green energy resources. The initial output from the plant will be utilized to power vehicles within the airport, showcasing a practical application of green hydrogen in the aviation landscape.

S. Suhas IAS, Managing Director of CIAL, expressed enthusiasm about the groundbreaking collaboration, stating, "As pioneers in sustainable aviation, CIAL is happy to start a groundbreaking journey with BPCL towards establishing the country's first Green Hydrogen plant in an airport at CIAL." He emphasized that this strategic collaboration underscores CIAL's unwavering commitment to green energy and propels them closer to a zero-carbon future in aviation.

G. Krishnakumar, Chairman & Managing Director of BPCL, echoed the sentiment, considering the collaboration a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable solutions. He highlighted the significance of innovation and partnership in driving meaningful change, emphasizing BPCL's commitment to India's energy independence through initiatives like "AatmaNirbhar Bharat," as showcased by the indigenous electrolyser at India Energy Week 2024.

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including P. Rajeeve, Minister for Industries; Dr. V. Venu IAS, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Kerala; K. R. Jyothilal IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, GAD & Power; Suman Billa IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and NORKA; V. R. K Gupta, Director (Finance), BPCL; Shelly Abraham, Executive Director (SCO), BPCL; Ranjan Nair (Head Renewable Energy), BPCL; Saji K. George, Executive Director & Company Secretary, CIAL; Joseph Peter Painunkal, General Manager (Commercial), CIAL, among others.