BHEL and Horizon Fuel Cell Join Forces

Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) has signed a 10-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Singapore-based Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies to jointly develop hydrogen fuel cell-powered rolling stock for Indian Railways.

This collaboration aligns closely with India’s National Hydrogen Mission and the railways’ ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. The partnership combines BHEL’s heavy engineering expertise with Horizon’s global leadership in hydrogen-powered systems to create efficient, cost-effective green transport solutions.

Strategic Significance : Hydrogen for Sustainable Mobility

India’s transport sector is undergoing a major shift as the government pushes for clean energy adoption. Indian Railways, one of the world’s largest rail networks, is moving to phase out diesel locomotives and introduce zero-emission alternatives.

Hydrogen fuel cells are emerging as a game-changer thanks to their:

• Zero tailpipe emissions, helping India meet climate commitments.

• Higher efficiency and longer range compared to battery systems.

• Scalability for heavy-duty transport, making them ideal for locomotives and passenger trains.

For BHEL, this MoU marks a strategic diversification into green mobility solutions, while Horizon Fuel Cell brings proven expertise in hydrogen technology to help India leapfrog in sustainable transportation.

Market Impact and Industry Outlook

• Positive for BHEL Stock

  Investors are likely to view this as a long-term growth driver, strengthening BHEL’s positioning in renewable and sustainable energy sectors.

• Boost for Indian Railways

  Hydrogen-powered trains will support the railways’ decarbonisation roadmap and create opportunities for domestic suppliers of hydrogen fuel and components.

• Part of India’s Hydrogen Push

  The project reinforces India’s Green Hydrogen Policy, which aims to integrate hydrogen as a mainstream energy source across industries and transport systems.

Roadmap : From R&D to Deployment

The collaboration will start with research and development, prototype design, and pilot projects on select railway routes. Scaling this innovation to commercial deployment will hinge on:

• Hydrogen refuelling infrastructure development.

• Government incentives and regulatory support.

• Cost competitiveness versus full electrification.

If successful, India could become a global pioneer in hydrogen rail technology, creating export opportunities for homegrown engineering and manufacturing firms.

Final Word

BHEL’s tie-up with Horizon Fuel Cell is a landmark moment in India’s clean transport revolution. By leveraging hydrogen technology, this initiative could reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels, accelerate the railways’ decarbonisation efforts, and showcase the country as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions.

Sources

Moneycontrol – “BHEL to develop fuel cell-based trains in partnership with Singapore-based Horizon Tech” (Sept 5, 2025)

Business Standard – “BHEL inks exclusive MoU with Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies” (Sept 6, 2025)