Kochi: Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore Limited (FACT) and Oil India Limited (OIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the potential of green hydrogen production in Kochi. This collaboration aims to establish a small-scale green hydrogen plant at FACT’s premises, marking a significant step towards sustainable operations and a cleaner future, reported The Hindu.
As per media report, FACT is actively considering the prospect of establishing a solar farm on its extensive water reservoir at the Ambalamedu campus. Preliminary explorations and assessments of the potential are currently underway. While FACT will independently oversee the development of the solar power generation facility, the Green Hydrogen project will be a collaborative venture, aligning with the commitment to more environmentally conscious operations and a sustainable future.
In addition to its reliance on State grid power, FACT presently fulfills its energy requirements through the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG), acknowledged as a cleaner fuel compared to the fuels previously employed by the company. The annual consumption of LNG by FACT amounts to approximately 10 million mmBtu. Notably, FACT has employed a variety of fuels since its inception, including the use of firewood. In the late 1940s, firewood was transported via country boats from Malayattoor forests to produce ammonia through a wood gasification process.
The initiation of the green hydrogen plant establishment will involve an initial feasibility study, encompassing aspects such as technology, capital cost, and operating cost. The planning process and feasibility study are anticipated to involve FACT’s Engineering and Design Organisation (FEDO).
