BPCL in talks with Nippon for power via fuel cell technology
State-run oil marketing conglomerate, Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL), has informed that the company is searching the options to produce up to 1,000 mw of power through fuel cell technology over the coming three to five fiscals, and is holding talks with Japan based Nippon Oil Corporation for polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) technology.
Established in 2005, PEFC is globe’s first cogeneration system based on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
This system was developed by Nippon Oil, Japanese major oil importer and distributor.
According to the repots, the estimated investments for a 500-1,000 mw capacity could range between Rs 40-80 billion.
Recently, the conglomerate has developed a prototype fuel cell-based energy system using hydrogen as fuel. The project entails production of hydrogen through electrolysis of alkaline water.
According to the sources, BPCL is also building a 1-MW capacity grid-connected solar farm in Punjab. The technical and financial evaluation of the project is under process. The conglomerate is also foraying into power generation by setting up windmills at different locations.
