Adani Group Deploys First Hydrogen Truck To Haul Coal In Chhattisgarh

Adani Enterprises Ltd. has deployed its first hydrogen truck to haul coal in Chhattisgarh, in what can be seen as the first step to do away with diesel trucks in mining logistics.

The truck, powered by hydrogen fuel cells, will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block to a power plant operated by the Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Co. Ltd., according to a statement on Saturday. The state-run power utility has appointed Adani Enterprises as the developer of the coal block after a competitive bidding process.

On Saturday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the truck on its maiden journey from state capital Raipur.

“Such initiatives will significantly reduce our carbon footprint and set a new standard for industry,” Sai said at the flag-off event. “Chhattisgarh is not only at the forefront in meeting India’s electricity demands but also leads by example in adopting sustainable practices.”

Adani Enterprises is developing hydrogen fuel cell trucks with an energy technology firm and an Indian automaker for cargo transport. It has three hydrogen to haul 40 tonnes of cargo over 200 km.

To be sure, India itself has identified hydrogen trucks as crucial to its endeavour for net zero carbon emissions by 2070. At least five companies, including Ashok Leyland Ltd., Eicher Motors Ltd. and Tata Motors Ltd., have won approval to develop hydrogen fuel cell trucks under a production-linked incentive scheme for India’s automotive sector.

In March, Tata Motors launched the first-ever trials of heavy-duty hydrogen trucks in India. Sixteen of them are now driving on eight key freight corridors to test for long-distance cargo transport.

For Adani Enterprises, their hydrogen truck ties in with the group’s aim of “environmentally responsible” mining operations.

“We are creating model mines with minimal environmental impact by incorporating auto dozer push technologies, solar power, digital initiatives, and tree transplanters to relocate trees,” Vinay Prakash, chief executive officer for natural resources and a director at Adani Enterprises, said in the statement. “We aim to ensure affordable and reliable electricity for all while pioneering new standards in sustainable mining practices.”