Lalitpur: Preparations have begun to set up a modern green hydrogen plant in the district, with the state government seeking details on water availability for the proposed project by the Osiar Group. The government has asked the irrigation department to submit a report on the availability of 0.013 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water required for the plant, reports Amar Ujala.
Following the government’s directive, the irrigation department has started exploring possible options to supply the required water. Officials said efforts are underway to identify feasible sources to meet the project’s needs.
The district administration has been regularly organising investors’ summits to promote investment in the area. These efforts have resulted in proposals worth several crores of rupees for solar power projects. At present, multiple solar power plants are being set up in different parts of the district, with some nearing completion. In the same sequence, a proposal for establishing a green hydrogen plant has now come forward.
The Osiar Group plans to invest around ₹1,200 crore in the project. Based on the proposal submitted to Invest UP, the state government has issued a letter to the irrigation department, asking it to ensure the availability of 0.013 TMC of water for hydrogen production. Senior irrigation officials have since sought a detailed report from the district level.
Officials said the option of drawing water from the Betwa river, which passes through the Birdha block area, is being considered. According to the department, hydrogen will be produced through the electrolysis process, in which water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy. The process is considered completely pollution-free and environmentally friendly. If all formalities are completed on time, the district is expected to emerge as a new centre for green hydrogen production in the coming years. Employment opportunities for local youth
The establishment of the green hydrogen plant is expected to bring major industrial investment to the district and create new employment opportunities for local youth. Officials said the project could strengthen the region’s economy.
Methanol to be produced from carbon dioxide
During the process of producing hydrogen from water, carbon dioxide and oxygen will be separated. The remaining carbon dioxide will then be used to produce methanol. At present, methanol is mainly produced from coal.
Fact file: Solar energy status in the district
Seven proposals with total investment of ₹16,650 crore
Target of 982 megawatts of power generation
Six plants currently producing 91 megawatts
Land for the green hydrogen plant has not yet been finalised. Suitable land will be identified soon and provided to the company, district magistrate Satyaprakash said.
