Nepal, a country heavily reliant on imported oil, is taking a groundbreaking step towards energy self-sufficiency and environmental conservation with the introduction of the first hydrogen-powered car. Kathmandu University (KU), in collaboration with Nepal Oil Corporation, has unveiled a Hyundai hydrogen vehicle, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s automotive and energy sectors.
Around the globe, efforts are underway to explore alternatives to traditional petroleum-based fuels. Renewable sources such as hydro, solar, and wind power are being harnessed for various transportation applications. In this context, vehicles are powered by storing electricity in batteries and utilizing hydrogen extracted from water.
Kathmandu University (KU) has recently introduced a vehicle capable of traveling up to 600 kilometers on a single hydrogen charge. This vehicle, akin to Hyundai’s 2019 Nexo car, represents the next generation of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
The car possesses a storage capability for hydrogen amounting to 6 kilograms, facilitated by three high-pressure tanks. Under favorable electricity conditions, 6 kilograms of hydrogen can be generated from 55 liters of water. Refilling the vehicle with hydrogen at the refueling center can be accomplished within a brief duration of 5 to 6 minutes.
“A hydrogen fuel vehicle operates similarly to an electric vehicle. In an EV, the motor is powered by the battery,” – Nitesh Yadav, Project Engineer At The Green Hydrogen Lab
The arrival of the hydrogen car is the culmination of extensive research and development efforts spearheaded by Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa, head of the Green Hydrogen Lab at KU. With a dedicated focus on hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel, KU has invested $33,000 to bring this innovative technology to Nepal. This investment not only demonstrates KU’s commitment to sustainable transportation but also showcases its role as a pioneer in driving technological innovation in the country.
However, while KU’s pioneering efforts are commendable, the successful integration of hydrogen energy into Nepal’s transportation sector requires strong policy support from the government. Despite the economic feasibility and environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel production, the absence of specific policies or laws regarding alternative fuels poses a significant challenge. Experts stress the need for proactive government action to develop policies conducive to the adoption and production of hydrogen energy.
As per data from the Trade and Export Promotion Centre, Nepal’s expenditure on imported petroleum products totaled Rs. 175.53 billion in the fiscal year 2020-21, while it amounted to Rs. 164 billion in the previous fiscal year of 2019-20. The importation of petroleum products during these periods was notably affected due to government-imposed lockdowns at various intervals aimed at mitigating the spread of the virus, resulting in a decrease in overall consumption.
In the fiscal year 2018-19, the country’s imports of petroleum products reached a value of Rs216.42 billion.
Over the past five years, there has been a significant increase in fuel consumption among Nepalis, with a reported surge of 90 percent. Despite consistent electricity supply, the demand for petroleum has been rising at a rate of 10 percent annually.
“The project’s success will determine its timeline, and the production of alternative fuel will be a time-consuming endeavor. We are looking at a 15-year timeframe for the project, during which we won’t see a decline in the usage of fossil fuels.” – Surendra Kumar Paudel, Managing Director of Nepal Oil Corporation
Furthermore, KU has unveiled the ‘Prototype Onsite Hydrogen Production and Refueling Unit‘, capable of generating a maximum of 2 kg of hydrogen daily. Scaling up the capacity of its buffer tank would enable an increase in production output.
Utilizing Nepal’s surplus electricity to generate hydrogen fuel has the potential to completely transform the nation’s energy landscape while also decreasing reliance on imported fossil fuels. Dr. Thapa emphasized the importance of leveraging this surplus electricity for hydrogen production, underlining the necessity for government policies that encourage investment in clean energy technologies. Additionally, the establishment of comprehensive regulatory frameworks and incentives to promote the development of hydrogen infrastructure is essential for creating an environment conducive to investment and innovation in this sector.
The introduction of the hydrogen car by Kathmandu University signifies more than just a technological achievement—it represents Nepal’s dedication to sustainable development and environmental preservation. With growing anticipation for government policy support, there is optimism that forward-thinking frameworks will pave the way for widespread adoption of hydrogen energy, signaling a significant transition towards a more environmentally friendly future.
In conclusion, the pioneering initiative of Kathmandu University’s Green Hydrogen Lab heralds a new era of clean transportation in Nepal. With continued research, investment, and policy advocacy, hydrogen energy has the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s energy landscape and driving sustainable development for generations to come. As Nepal positions itself as a leader in clean energy innovation, collaborations between academia, industry, and government will be essential to unlock the full potential of hydrogen energy and realize a more sustainable future for all.
