India has launched the world’s first nuclear process heat-based hydrogen production facility, marking a historic milestone in clean energy innovation.
The pilot plant, commissioned at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, integrates nuclear energy with the Copper–Chlorine (Cu–Cl) thermochemical cycle to produce carbon-free hydrogen. The facility was inaugurated on 26 June 2026 by Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission.
Developed jointly by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai and IGCAR, the plant uses heat from the Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) to drive the Cu–Cl cycle. This process operates at relatively lower temperatures compared to other thermochemical methods, offering higher efficiency and scalability.
Officials highlighted that the facility represents a global first, positioning India at the forefront of nuclear-assisted hydrogen production. The project supports the National Green Hydrogen Mission and aligns with India’s long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Hydrogen is considered a key energy carrier for the future, vital for decarbonisation in industries such as steel, transport, and chemicals. By leveraging nuclear energy, India aims to produce hydrogen without greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening its clean energy transition.
While the current facility is a demonstrator, experts believe it will pave the way for larger-scale deployment, though challenges remain in terms of cost, safety, and regulatory frameworks. The pilot project is expected to provide valuable operational experience for future expansion.
