NTPC’s NETRA to Pioneer Green Hydrogen Plant Using Plasma Oxy Gasification Technology

NETRA, NTPC’s R&D wing, sets out to establish a world-first green hydrogen plant using Plasma Oxy Gasification of MSW/Agri-Waste, producing ultra-pure hydrogen and electricity from waste. Learn more about this groundbreaking initiative.

NETRA, the research and development arm of NTPC Ltd., has announced an ambitious plan to establish a state-of-the-art green hydrogen production plant utilizing Plasma Oxy Gasification technology. This project is set to become the first of its kind globally, creating an innovative pathway for producing ultra-pure hydrogen from municipal solid waste (MSW) and agricultural waste.

A Technological Breakthrough: Plasma Oxy Gasification

The planned demonstration facility will leverage a unique plasma-assisted oxy gasification process to gasify around 25 tonnes of MSW/Agri-Waste per day, yielding approximately 1 tonne of high-purity hydrogen (>99.9%). This advanced method will generate a high-quality synthesis gas (syn-gas), which will then undergo a novel separation process using gas membranes and pressure swing adsorption to extract pure hydrogen.

Beyond Hydrogen: Maximizing Energy Output

Not only will the plant produce green hydrogen, but it will also utilize carbon monoxide (CO) separated during the hydrogen recovery process. This CO will fuel a low-calorie gas engine to produce electricity, showcasing a dual-purpose use of resources and aligning with NETRA's dedication to efficient and sustainable energy practices.

Green Hydrogen: The Alternative to Energy-Intensive Processes

Unlike conventional electrolysis, which consumes approximately 55-60 kWh to produce 1 kg of hydrogen, plasma gasification of MSW and agricultural waste represents a significantly less energy-intensive alternative. This pioneering process reaffirms NTPC’s commitment to adopting circular economy principles and supporting India’s green energy transition.

Aligning with Circular Economy and NTPC's Sustainability Vision

This project underscores NETRA's mission to lead innovative research in support of NTPC’s energy transition strategies. It also marks a pivotal development for NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL), the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary dedicated to expanding NTPC’s green energy initiatives.

By tapping into waste-to-energy conversion for green hydrogen, NTPC and NETRA are setting a precedent for sustainable energy solutions and supporting global decarbonization efforts.