STL’s Maharashtra plant becomes world’s first to use 100% green hydrogen for optical fiber production via Hygenco partnership, cutting 30% annual CO₂.
Key Project Highlights
✅ India’s First: Green hydrogen-powered optical fiber production
✅ Location: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra
✅ Technology: Hygenco’s electrolyzer-based hydrogen generation
✅ Capacity: Fully meets STL’s glass preform plant requirements
✅ Emission Reduction: 30% annual CO₂ cut for STL’s operations
✅ Partnership Model: Hygenco builds/operates (20-year PPA)
Strategic Impact on Optical Fiber Manufacturing
Green Hydrogen Implementation
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application | Glass preform furnace fuel |
| Replaces | Grey hydrogen (from fossil fuels) |
| Output | 100% green optical fiber |
| System Features | Real-time monitoring, automated controls |
Why This Matters
✔ Industry Benchmark: First global optical fiber co. using 100% green H₂
✔ Net Zero Roadmap: Accelerates STL’s 2030 carbon neutrality goal
✔ Make in India: Aligns with National Green Hydrogen Mission
Business & Technology Model
Operational Structure
- Hygenco’s Role:
- CAPEX investment (~₹150-200 crore estimated)
- 24/7 green hydrogen supply
- Maintenance & upgrades
- STL’s Benefits:
- Fixed price fuel for 20 years
- No upfront capital expenditure
- Guaranteed emission reductions
Technical Specifications
- Electrolysis Tech: Likely PEM/Alkaline
- Renewable Source: Solar/wind PPAs
- Purity Level: Semiconductor-grade (>99.999%)
Leadership Perspectives
Rahul Puri, CEO – Optical Networking, STL:
“This collaboration makes our Maharashtra plant the global sustainability benchmark for fiber optics manufacturing.”
Amit Bansal, CEO, Hygenco:
“Demonstrates green hydrogen’s viability for high-precision industries beyond fertilizers/refining.”
Market Implications
✔ 5G Infrastructure: Supports eco-friendly telecom network expansion
✔ Export Potential: “Green fiber” differentiator in global markets
✔ Scalability: Model replicable for other glass/ceramic industries
Government Synergies
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: ₹19,744 crore incentives
- Maharashtra Policy: Additional subsidies for early adopters
- PLI Scheme: Possible benefits for green manufacturing
Projected Outcomes:
- 5,000+ tons grey hydrogen replaced annually
- 20-year price stability vs volatile fossil fuels
Future Roadmap:
- Potential expansion to other STL facilities
- Hydrogen storage integration
