IIT Madras Study Shows PEM Electrolysers Can Cut Power Use In Green Hydrogen

India’s ambitious plan to produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030 has received a boost from a recent study conducted by IIT Madras. Researchers found that PEM electrolysers deliver higher efficiency than traditional alkaline systems, offering a potential game-changer for the country’s clean energy transition.  

Key highlights from the study include  

• PEM electrolysers reduce electricity consumption by 10–15% compared to alkaline units.  
• Efficiency gains translate to 5–8 kWh less electricity per kilogram of hydrogen produced.  
• Relative efficiency improvement is estimated at 8–12 percentage points on a lower heating value basis.  
• The study emphasizes the importance of standardizing green hydrogen classification for global adoption.  
• Design choices in electrolysers can reshape lifecycle emissions and material requirements for scale-up.  
• India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023, aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes annually by 2030.  
• Experts highlight that PEM technology could lower production costs and enhance sustainability.  

According to Satyanarayanan Seshadri, head of The Energy Consortium at IIT Madras, PEM electrolysers represent a practical solution to reduce energy intensity in hydrogen production. By cutting electricity use, they not only lower costs but also reduce the environmental footprint of green hydrogen, making it more viable for industrial and transport applications.  

This development is crucial as India seeks to strengthen energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and position itself as a global leader in clean energy. The adoption of PEM electrolysers could accelerate the country’s transition to a sustainable hydrogen economy, supporting both domestic and international climate commitments.  

Sources: Business Standard, EduAdvice, Careers360