India's pioneering green hydrogen-powered ferry, constructed by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), has officially received approval from the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), clearing the path for its deployment in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This 50-passenger capacity vessel, which has successfully completed six months of trial runs, represents a significant leap towards zero-emission maritime transport within the country.

The development holds particular significance for entities like the Kochi Water Metro, which currently operates electric-hybrid ferries from CSL and is now actively considering a transition to green hydrogen fuel. Initial concerns regarding the high operating costs and sourcing difficulties of hydrogen have diminished, with discussions revived following a subsidy scheme from the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT).

Industry sources indicate a substantial reduction in green hydrogen costs. While the 'future fuel' was priced at approximately Rs 960/kg two years ago, it has now more than halved, with current costs around Rs 360/kg, partly due to initiatives like Reliance's pilot hydrogen refueling station (HRS) in Jamnagar. This cost reduction is critical for the economic viability of hydrogen-powered vessels.

Further bolstering the infrastructure for hydrogen adoption is the upcoming establishment of South India's first green hydrogen plant and fueling station near Kochi airport at Nedumbassery. This joint venture between Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) will see BPCL responsible for building and operating the 1,000-kW plant, while CIAL provides land, water, and green energy resources. The facility is projected to produce 80 kg of green hydrogen daily, ensuring local availability.

Upon receiving IRS clearance, the indigenous vessel is set to commence operations in the Kashi-Prayagraj section. The ferry operates on a hydrogen fuel cell-powered battery system utilizing Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Technology (LT-PEM). A CSL official confirmed that this technology ensures the only by-products are water and heat, making it an environmentally benign solution. The vessel can achieve a speed of 6.5 knots, offers silent operation, and requires minimal maintenance due to fewer moving parts. Its reliance on hydrogen eliminates greenhouse gas emissions, positioning it as a model for sustainable maritime transportation.

The vessel is equipped with five hydrogen cylinders, carrying 40 kg of hydrogen, sufficient to support eight hours of continuous operation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the ferry on February 28, 2024. CSL is also advancing other green hydrogen initiatives, including the construction of two Sea Shuttle Feeder Container Vessels, which are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 25,000 tons per year in zero-emission mode.