Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) is preparing to launch its first green hydrogen production unit in Mangaluru, with an annual output target of 500 tonnes by 2026. The city has been designated a green hydrogen cluster, positioning MRPL to play a key role in this emerging sector.
Green hydrogen, produced via water electrolysis, is seen as a critical energy source for the future. MRPL has already issued tenders for the electrolysis process and will allocate space within its facility for outsourced production. This hydrogen will be integrated into MRPL’s existing output.
The strategic importance of green hydrogen was highlighted during the ‘Invest Karnataka 2022’ summit, where nine major projects worth Rs 2.86 lakh crore were approved, many centered on Mangaluru, thanks to its port’s export potential.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to cut hydrocarbon use and support India’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2070. While hydrogen production in refineries typically uses methane and natural gas, which emit carbon, the shift to green hydrogen aims to eliminate these emissions.
Though costlier to produce, the government has mandated refineries like MRPL, IOCL, GAIL, BPCL, and ONGC to prioritize green hydrogen in line with global sustainability goals. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) is a leading public sector enterprise in India, operating under the aegis of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).
Located in Mangalore, Karnataka, MRPL is known for its state-of-the-art refinery with a capacity of 15 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA). It plays a significant role in meeting India’s petroleum needs by producing a wide range of refined products such as petrol, diesel, jet fuel, and petrochemicals.
The company has made notable strides in adopting advanced technologies and environmentally sustainable practices, focusing on energy efficiency and reducing emissions. The company has also expanded into petrochemicals, manufacturing products like polypropylene, contributing to the nation’s industrial growth.
With its strategic location and robust infrastructure, MRPL is a key player in India’s refining and petrochemical landscape, helping to ensure the country’s energy security while aligning with global environmental standards.
