Hindustan Zinc Limited has taken a major step towards decarbonising India’s mining sector by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advantek Associates LLP and Aero Eagle Automobiles Private Limited to jointly explore the adoption of green hydrogen and other clean energy technologies across its mining operations.The collaboration will focus on evaluating the technical, operational and commercial viability of hydrogen-powered solutions for mining applications, with a particular emphasis on underground operations. The initiative positions Hindustan Zinc among the first companies in India’s mining industry to assess the deployment of hydrogen fuel technologies in underground mining environments.
The partnership forms part of the company’s long-term strategy to develop technology-driven, low-carbon mining operations while advancing its commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. As the mining sector seeks practical solutions to reduce emissions from energy-intensive operations, hydrogen is increasingly emerging as a promising alternative for applications where conventional electrification remains challenging.
Under the agreement, the three partners will undertake comprehensive feasibility studies covering green hydrogen production, storage, refuelling infrastructure and the integration of hydrogen-powered equipment into mining operations. The assessment will also examine the application of Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2-ICE) technology and hydrogen fuel cells for powering heavy-duty mining machinery and industrial equipment.
The proposed solutions will be evaluated for deployment across underground mining equipment, heavy earth-moving machinery, surface transportation vehicles, power generators and other critical operational assets. The project will initially progress through technical, safety, environmental, operational and financial assessments before advancing to pilot projects and phased implementation, subject to successful outcomes.
Commenting on the collaboration, Arun Misra, Chief Executive Officer of Hindustan Zinc Limited, said the company is committed to introducing innovative technologies that can reshape the future of sustainable mining. He noted that hydrogen has the potential to significantly reduce emissions from heavy-duty equipment while creating new opportunities for decarbonising industrial operations that are difficult to electrify. He added that the partnership reflects Hindustan Zinc’s continued focus on building a future-ready metals business aligned with global sustainability standards.
The initiative complements the company’s broader Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy, which prioritises energy transition, resource efficiency and responsible mining practices. Hindustan Zinc has already increased the share of renewable energy in its power mix to nearly 18% while continuing to improve operational efficiency through cleaner technologies.
A Vedanta Group company, Hindustan Zinc has earned global recognition for its sustainability leadership, securing the top position in the metals and mining category of the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2025 for the third consecutive year. The company also became the first Indian member of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and continues to advance innovative solutions that support a cleaner, more resilient and sustainable mining industry.
