With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements : 1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion. 2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation. 3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles. How many of the above statements are correct?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) None
Why the answer is (c)
• Green hydrogen, produced by electrolysis with renewable power, is a versatile energy carrier.
• Statement 1 is correct: hydrogen can be burnt directly in modified internal-combustion engines; manufacturers such as Toyota and Indian firms have demonstrated hydrogen ICE vehicles.
• Statement 2 is correct: hydrogen can be blended with natural gas (typically up to 15–20%) in pipelines for heating and power generation; India has piloted blending in city gas networks.
• Statement 3 is correct: hydrogen fuel cells convert it into electricity to run vehicles such as buses and cars with only water as exhaust.
• Hence all three, option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) Only one
- All three uses are valid, not one.
- (b) Only two
- All three uses are valid, not two.
- (d) None
- Green hydrogen can be used in all three ways.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2023, held on 28 May 2023. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.