In a vibrant gathering that could rival any superhero convention, New Delhi has become the stage for the 41st episode of the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy’s Steering Committee Meeting, unfurling from March 18 to 22, 2024. This five-day extravaganza, set against the bustling backdrop of India’s capital, promises not just debates and discussions but a deep dive into the world of hydrogen and its potential to save our planet.
Day one kicked off with an “Academic Outreach” at IIT Delhi, where brains brighter than a hydrogen flame shared insights into the fuel of the future. Leading the charge was Prof. Ajay Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, who, in a move worthy of any caped crusader, called for the hydrogen sector to become cleaner and more wallet-friendly. He emphasized the critical role of skill development and R&D, hinting at a coalition of Ministries banding together under the banner of Green Hydrogen.
Sudeep Jain, the saga’s additional secretary from the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, spotlighted the menacing villain of our time—climate change. He championed the need for academic alliances and research rendezvous to foster an energy transition that leans heavily on green hydrogen, turning its back on the grey hydrogen of old.
Noe Van Hulst, the Vice-Chairperson of IPHE, painted India as the economic Hercules, destined to shape the clean energy future. He called upon the academic world to arm the next generation with knowledge and innovation for the clean hydrogen crusade.
From the hallowed halls of IIT Delhi, Prof. Naresh Bhatnagar shared tales of two decades spent harnessing hydrogen for vehicular valor, while Kishor Nair of Avaada Group rallied the academic avengers for technological triumphs in hydrogen production and application.
The event was not all talk and no action, featuring a poster presentation showdown and a quiz competition that saw champions crowned in knowledge and innovation.
Two panel discussions, “Empowering Expertise” and “Unveiling the Future,” served as the intellectual battlegrounds where the future of clean/green hydrogen was debated, displaying a unanimous call for skills, safety, and savvy to lead the charge into a hydrogen-powered horizon.
This meeting, part of a series that began in 2003, is not just a conference but a clarion call for the heroes of hydrogen to unite, innovate, and ignite a green revolution that could very well save the world.
