Kochi, world's first fully solar-powered airport, set to add 1,000 KW green hydrogen plant

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), the company that runs the Kochi airport, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd to establish a green hydrogen plant and fueling station within its premises. The companies are looking at a 1,000 KW project to be completed in 2025.

This will be India's first Integrated Green Hydrogen Plant and fuelling station within an airport, a significant milestone in sustainable fuel infrastructure.

CIAL is already the world's first airport fully solar-powered airport. The company now has a cumulative installed capacity of 50 MW through solar panels and a hydel station, producing 200,000 units of electricity a day.

Under the agreement, BPCL will oversee the establishment of the plant and fuelling station, provide the technology and manage its operations, while CIAL will contribute the land, water and clean energy. The initial hydrogen output will be used to power vehicles within the airport.

The agreement was signed at the Kerala's legislative complex in Thiruvananthapuram, in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, who is also Chairman of CIAL, state industries minister P Rajeeve, Kerala's chief secretary Dr V Venu and BPCL Chairman & Managing Director G Krishnakumar and other senior officials from both companies.

Krishnakumar commented: "The collaboration today is a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable energy solutions. At BPCL, we are committed to India's energy independence, strengthening the ambitious initiatives of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Vocal for Local.'"