THE HYDROGEN-POWERED FERRY PM LAUNCHED

Why in the news?

  • PM Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated India’s inaugural hydrogen fuel cell ferry.
  • Manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
  • Will operate in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
source:themirror

Key Features of the Ferry :

  • 24-meter-long catamaran.
  • Capacity: 50 passengers in an air-conditioned area.
  • High-quality fiberglass construction.
  • Equipped with five hydrogen cylinders, 40kg capacity each.
  • 3-kW solar panel for additional power.
  • Zero emissions, noise, and energy-efficient.
What is a Hydrogen Fuel Cell?

●    Hydrogen fuel cells are Clean, reliable, and efficient high power electric source.

●    Utilizes hydrogen to generate electricity.

●    Produces water and heat as by-products.

●    Abundant, cleaner alternative fuel.

About Hydrogen Fuel Cell Mechanism:

●    Generates electricity using chemical energy from hydrogen.

●    Produces only pure water, no pollutants.

●    Converts hydrogen energy into electricity and heat for propulsion.

●    Utilizes 50-kW PEM fuel cell with Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries.

●    Developed by CSI and KPIT Technologies in collaboration with CSIR Labs.

About Harit Nauka Initiative:

●    Unveiled by the shipping ministry in January 2024.

●    Aims for 50% green fuel usage in inland waterways fleets by 2034 and 100% by 2045.

●    Supports India’s transition to green maritime technology.