Punjab, IISc collaborate on green hydrogen pilot using paddy straw

The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, to launch a pilot project for producing green hydrogen from biomass, specifically paddy straw.

The initiative aims to reduce stubble burning, improve air quality, and create additional income opportunities for farmers. It is also expected to generate employment in the green energy sector.

In July 2025, IISc researchers developed a system capable of producing over 99 per cent pure green hydrogen from agricultural waste. The system can generate five kgs of hydrogen per hour from farm residue that would otherwise be burned or release methane.

The MoU was signed by Neelima, CEO of PEDA, and the registrar of IISc, Bengaluru, with Prof. S. Dasappa from IISc’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Energy Research (ICER) witnessing the exchange. The event took place during the 5th International Conference on Recent Advances in Bio-Energy Research at the Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy (SSS-NIBE).

By converting paddy straw into green hydrogen, the project seeks to provide a sustainable solution to Punjab’s stubble-burning problem. The initiative is expected to benefit both the environment and local communities by turning agricultural waste into energy.