In a strategic step towards supporting India's clean energy vision, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has partnered with Bengaluru-based green hydrogen startup Ohmium International to develop cutting-edge, green hydrogen-based microgrid solutions. This collaboration aligns with India's ambitious National Green Hydrogen Mission and reflects Toyota's expanding focus beyond automobiles to become a clean energy enabler.
A Clean Energy Partnership with a Purpose
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two companies sets the stage for a pilot initiative that combines Toyota's advanced fuel cell technology with Ohmium's expertise in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysers. The joint effort aims to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis, using renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, and then convert it into electricity through fuel cell stacks.
The intended output is a decentralized, off-grid green power system or microgrid, capable of powering manufacturing units, data centers, and remote industrial zones—especially those with limited or no access to grid electricity. If commercially viable, the solutions developed will contribute toward scalable hydrogen infrastructure development for India.
Supporting National Hydrogen Ambitions
India launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023 with the goal of becoming a global hub for green hydrogen production and technology. Toyota and Ohmium's collaboration feeds directly into this mission by innovating on both the technology and the application front.
The partnership also opens the door to long-term benefits such as energy self-reliance and decarbonization of heavy industries. Fuel cell modules from Toyota will be central to the power conversion process, while Ohmium will lead design, development, and performance evaluation of the integrated system.
Future-Ready Infrastructure and Localization
According to Vikram Gulati, Executive Vice President at TKM, the project is a step forward in "Indianising" hydrogen technology. The long-term roadmap includes potential localization of components and a strategy for developing a shared hydrogen infrastructure that could benefit both stationary applications and transport sectors like freight trucks and intercity buses.
The pilot project is already garnering attention and support from various government entities. Union ministers including Nitin Gadkari have lauded hydrogen as "the fuel of the future," appreciating its role in reducing emissions and contributing to India's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
A Proven Track Record
Toyota’s interest in hydrogen is not new. In India, the company has previously run trials with hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), worked with commercial vehicle manufacturers, and collaborated on hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. Ohmium, on the other hand, is a leading player in the electrolyser space, making it a well-suited partner to scale hydrogen solutions.
The new collaboration is expected to add momentum to both companies' ongoing sustainability efforts, including Toyota’s commitment to hybrid-electric and alternative fuel vehicles for the Indian market.
Conclusion
The partnership between Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Ohmium International marks a major milestone in India's journey toward a sustainable, hydrogen-powered future. By merging fuel cell technology with innovative electrolysis systems, the initiative offers the potential for cleaner industrial energy and decentralized grid solutions.
As India accelerates toward its 2047 energy independence and net-zero goals, such collaborations will be essential. Toyota and Ohmium are not just creating energy systems—they are powering a movement toward a greener, self-reliant India.
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