Hindustan Zinc Enters MoU with Advantek Associates and Aero Eagle Automobiles to Explore Hydrogen Fuel Solutions

Hindustan Zinc Limited (BSE: 500188 & NSE: HINDZINC), recognized as the world’s largest integrated producer of zinc and among the top ten silver producers globally, has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advantek Associates LLP and Aero Eagle Automobiles Private Limited.

This partnership aims to investigate the adoption of green hydrogen and alternative clean energy solutions throughout Hindustan Zinc’s operations. The joint effort intends to assess innovative technologies that could aid the company’s transition to low-carbon and future-ready mining practices. Notably, Hindustan Zinc plans to lead the implementation of hydrogen fuel technology in underground mining, potentially becoming the only company to apply this technology in such settings.

Strategic Focus on Low-Carbon Mining Operations

This collaboration aligns with Hindustan Zinc’s broader strategy centered on developing low-carbon, technologically advanced mining operations. The company has committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or earlier.

Mining and heavy industry sectors present significant challenges for decarbonization. Hydrogen-based clean fuel technologies are emerging as critical pathways to reduce emissions in energy-intensive and difficult-to-electrify applications.

The MoU will enable the company to examine hydrogen technologies that support its long-term decarbonization objectives while enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable value.

Insights from Leadership

Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, commented, “We are seeking innovative solutions to redefine sustainable mining’s future. Hydrogen offers the potential for cleaner mobility, emission reductions from heavy-duty machinery, and new avenues for decarbonizing challenging industrial operations.

This partnership is a proactive step toward evaluating hydrogen technologies, especially for underground mining, as we aim to build a metals business that aligns with global sustainability standards.”

Scope of the Collaboration

The collaboration’s focus includes comprehensive feasibility studies of hydrogen-related technologies such as green hydrogen production, storage, dispensing infrastructure, and hydrogen-powered equipment.

It will explore the applicability of Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2-ICE) and fuel cell technologies within mining and industrial contexts.

A significant emphasis lies on assessing hydrogen fuel applications in underground mining, positioning Hindustan Zinc as an early adopter in India’s mining sector in this domain.

Project Implementation and Phased Approach

The project will proceed in phases, starting with evaluations of technical, operational, safety, environmental, and financial aspects.

Depending on the findings, there is potential for extending the implementation across a range of assets including mining equipment, heavy earth-moving machinery, both underground and surface vehicles, and generators.

This initiative is expected to enhance internal capabilities related to next-generation fuels and accelerate sustainable energy adoption within the metals and mining industry.

Commitment to ESG and Sustainability

This effort is part of Hindustan Zinc’s comprehensive Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) agenda, emphasizing decarbonization, energy transition, and responsible natural resource management.

Consistent with its Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validated goals and membership in the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), the company continues advancing its sustainability commitments.

Currently, renewable energy contributes approximately 18% to Hindustan Zinc’s power consumption, and the company is progressing through cleaner technologies and improved operational efficiencies.

Key Takeaways

  • Hindustan Zinc partners with Advantek Associates LLP and Aero Eagle Automobiles Private Limited to explore green hydrogen fuel solutions.
  • The collaboration focuses on adopting hydrogen fuel technology, especially in underground mining operations.
  • The initiative supports Hindustan Zinc’s goal to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 or earlier.
  • Phased feasibility studies will assess technical, safety, environmental, and financial aspects of hydrogen applications.
  • This project reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability under its ESG agenda and international standards.