Udaipur: Hindustan Zinc Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advantek Associates LLP and Aero Eagle Automobiles Private Limited to jointly explore hydrogen fuel solutions across its mining operations. The collaboration aims to evaluate the feasibility of green hydrogen and other clean energy technologies to support the company’s long-term decarbonisation goals.
The disclosure was made in compliance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and has also been published on the company’s official website.
Focus on Hydrogen-Based Clean Energy Solutions in Mining
The partnership will focus on assessing hydrogen applications across key mining and operational areas, including:
- Underground mining operations
- Heavy earth-moving machinery
- Surface vehicles and transport systems
- Generators and industrial equipment
- Hydrogen storage and dispensing infrastructure
The initiative will also evaluate Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2-ICE) systems as well as fuel cell technologies to determine their suitability for mining environments.
Strategic Push Toward Decarbonisation and Net Zero
This collaboration is part of Hindustan Zinc’s broader sustainability strategy aimed at developing low-carbon, future-ready mining operations. The company has committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or earlier.
Mining is among the most energy-intensive industries globally, and hydrogen is increasingly being considered as a viable alternative for decarbonising heavy-duty operations that are difficult to electrify.
The company plans to conduct comprehensive studies covering:
- Technical feasibility
- Operational suitability
- Safety standards
- Environmental impact
- Financial viability
Based on outcomes, Hindustan Zinc may move toward pilot projects and phased implementation across its mining assets.
Structured Implementation Roadmap
The MoU outlines a phased approach for hydrogen integration in mining operations:
- Initial feasibility and technical evaluation
- Safety and environmental impact assessment
- Financial and economic analysis
- Pilot testing of hydrogen technologies
- Potential large-scale deployment across mining operations
If successful, hydrogen-based systems could be deployed in underground vehicles, heavy machinery, and auxiliary power systems.
Alignment With ESG Commitments and Global Standards
The initiative is closely aligned with Hindustan Zinc’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) roadmap. Key commitments include:
- Net Zero target by 2050 or earlier
- Alignment with Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)
- Membership in the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM)
- Expansion of renewable energy usage in operations
The company has already increased renewable energy contribution to nearly 18% of its total energy mix and continues to invest in clean energy transition technologies.
Sustainability Recognition and Global Leadership
Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable metals and mining company in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2025, achieving this recognition for the third consecutive year.
The company continues to focus on innovation-led sustainability, including low-carbon product development, operational efficiency, and responsible resource management practices.
Leadership Perspective on Hydrogen Adoption
According to Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, the company is actively pursuing breakthrough technologies that can redefine sustainable mining operations. He highlighted hydrogen’s potential to significantly reduce emissions from heavy-duty mining equipment and improve clean mobility across industrial operations.
The collaboration will also help assess hydrogen’s suitability in underground mining conditions, where safety and efficiency are critical factors.
About Hindustan Zinc
Hindustan Zinc Limited is one of India’s leading integrated zinc, lead, and silver producer, operating with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence. The company is actively investing in renewable energy, decarbonisation technologies, and responsible mining practices as part of its long-term commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions.
Read also: Hindustan Zinc Signs MoU with Sulfozyme Agro for Sustainable Zinc Manufacturing at Bhilwara
