Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) signs tech transfer agreement with BARC

Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) announced that it has signed a technology transfer agreement (TTA) with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to achieve full indigenous development of alkaline electrolyser systems for hydrogen production. This step gives BHEL the opportunity to retrieve indigenous diaphragm technology for electrolysers and all to help advance India’s green hydrogen ambitions. The agreement is based around BARC's Mixed-Matrix Membrane Diaphragm Technology, which will be used in electrolyser systems to separate hydrogen and oxygen as part of the electrolysis process. The technology represents another cost-effective option to imported materials like Zirfon and asbestos-based diaphragms, and is currently applicable to many systems.

By taking this step, the company will further enhance its role in clean energy transition, not just in supporting the increased use of green hydrogen but also by facilitating local production formats, so that it can be based in the country.

Electrolyser are an essential part of producing green hydrogen made using renewable electricity, and an important clean alternative for industries such as steel, fertilisers, and transportation.

Navratna PSU BHEL is India's largest engineering and manufacturing company working in the energy and infrastructure space. It is the largest power equipment manufacturer in the world, while as of 31 December 2024, the Government of India held a 63.17% share in the company.