Que: Could you please provide a brief overview of Nuberg EPC’s involvement in hydrogen solutions?

Ans: Nuberg EPC is a prominent leader in the field of hydrogen energy EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction). We specialize in the production, storage, and utilization of hydrogen, aiming to advance hydrogen plants with scalable and efficient operations. Our efforts integrate innovative solutions to enhance performance and sustainability. A significant milestone in our journey is the establishment of India's first commercial hydrogen storage and fueling station, which highlights our commitment to environmentally friendly energy infrastructure. Some of our notable projects include the hydrogen refueling station for Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) in Vadodara and a hydrogen plant for Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) in Kochi.

In collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), we are delivering a 400 Nm³/hr hydrogen plant under a Lump Sum Turnkey (LSTK) contract. This project encompasses design engineering, manufacturing, supply, and commissioning, and is scheduled for completion in 2024-25. Additionally, we are providing Deccan Fine Chemicals in Andhra Pradesh with a 150 Nm³/hr hydrogen purification unit under an LSTK contract, which also covers EPC manufacturing, supply, and commissioning.

Our green hydrogen initiatives include a project for Hygenco Green Energy, supplying hydrogen to Jindal Stainless in Hissar, Haryana. This project underscores our dedication to sustainable energy solutions and supports industrial transitions to greener operations.

Our expertise spans various sectors, including chemicals, fertilizers, hydrocarbons, and green energy. We are supported by in-house manufacturing units comprising a state-of-the-art fabrication facility of 115,000 sqm. This facility boasts a cold rolling capacity of 100 mm and a handling capacity of 200 tons, and holds accreditations such as ASME, ISO, PESO, IBR, and EIL certifications. We serve prestigious clients such as Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers (RCF), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Tata, Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). Our delivered projects include Sulfur Recovery Units and advanced water electrolysis technologies. Globally, our hydrogen projects encompass green, grey, and blue hydrogen technologies, positioning Nuberg EPC at the forefront of a sustainable energy future.

Que: How do you envision the integration of hydrogen into existing energy infrastructure transforming the EPC industry?

Ans: As the founder and CMD of Nuberg EPC, I am deeply invested in harnessing hydrogen's transformative potential within the EPC sector. Hydrogen represents a sustainable and versatile energy solution that plays a crucial role in stabilizing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. By storing surplus energy and releasing it as needed, hydrogen enables greater reliability and efficiency in energy systems. However, realizing this potential requires substantial investments in infrastructure and technologies, including hydrogen pipelines and fuel cells, which in turn present significant growth opportunities, drive new business models, and foster job creation.

Despite its promising benefits, the widespread adoption of hydrogen faces challenges, particularly in establishing stringent safety standards due to its flammability. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring the safe and effective integration of hydrogen technologies into global energy landscapes.

Nuberg EPC is actively leading this transition on a global scale. In Ethiopia, we are currently engaged in an EPC and manufacturing project for a hydrogen plant capable of producing 285 Nm³/hr, alongside an H2 purification unit. Additionally, our endeavors include the development of two hydrogen plants in Bangladesh, each with a capacity of 70 Nm³/hr. These projects underscore our commitment to delivering advanced hydrogen solutions and integrating them seamlessly into existing energy infrastructures worldwide.

Central to our approach is the development of innovative, safe, and cost-effective hydrogen solutions. We collaborate closely with governments, businesses, and research institutions to drive sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security. By pioneering these efforts, Nuberg EPC is dedicated to guiding the EPC industry through an exciting evolution towards a robust and sustainable energy future.

Que: Can you share any specific projects or case studies where Nuberg EPC successfully integrated hydrogen as a renewable energy source?

Ans: One of our flagship projects in the hydrogen sector is the establishment of India’s first commercial-scale hydrogen fueling station in Gujarat. This project marks a significant milestone, supporting hydrogen-powered vehicles and playing a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector. The fueling station is equipped with advanced hydrogen storage and compression technologies, highlighting our expertise in integrating hydrogen into practical applications.

Our collaboration with Hygenco Green Energy is another noteworthy endeavor. We are supplying hydrogen to Jindal Stainless in Hissar, Haryana, through the detailed engineering, manufacturing, supply, erection, and commissioning of a 350 Nm³/hr H2 purification unit under a Lump Sum Turnkey (LSTK) contract. This project exemplifies our ability to deliver comprehensive hydrogen solutions that enhance industrial processes while promoting sustainability.

Additionally, we have partnered with Deccan Fine Chemicals in Andhra Pradesh to provide a 100 Nm³/hr H2 purification unit under an LSTK contract. This project includes EPC manufacturing, supply, and commissioning, demonstrating our proficiency in executing complex hydrogen projects efficiently. Our ongoing project in Bangladesh, involving the development of two hydrogen plants with a capacity of 70 Nm³/hr each, further underscores our global reach and commitment to integrating hydrogen as a renewable energy source.

These projects not only illustrate our technical capabilities but also our dedication to driving the adoption of clean energy solutions. Through such initiatives, Nuberg EPC aims to set new benchmarks in the hydrogen sector and contribute significantly to the global effort towards a more sustainable energy future.

Que: What role does data analytics play in optimizing hydrogen projects, and how does Nuberg EPC use these insights to drive business success?

Ans: Data analytics plays a crucial role in optimizing hydrogen projects by providing actionable insights across production, distribution, and utilization phases. It enables the analysis of large datasets to enhance efficiency and effectiveness throughout the hydrogen value chain. Real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization ensure that our hydrogen solutions are not only reliable but also efficient.

By leveraging data analytics, we gain deep insights into operational patterns and trends, identifying inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. This allows us to implement targeted measures to reduce energy consumption and costs effectively.

At Nuberg EPC, we utilize advanced data analytics tools and technologies to process extensive data generated during hydrogen production, storage, and distribution. This data-driven approach helps us eliminate inefficiencies and enables proactive problem-solving, optimizing resource utilization. Our integrated business analytics strategy, supported by ERP systems and specialized software such as AutoCAD E3D, ISOMEC, and FEED & Basic Engineering, enhances operational excellence and facilitates informed decision-making.

By harnessing the power of data analytics, Nuberg EPC ensures the delivery of innovative and reliable hydrogen solutions on a global scale, driving business success through informed, data-driven decisions.

Que: How is the EPC sector evolving from traditional health, safety, and environmental (HSE) practices to a more comprehensive approach to sustainability and climate change?

Ans: The EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) sector is undergoing a significant evolution towards a more holistic approach to sustainability and climate change, driven by several key factors:

• Regulatory and Market Pressures: The industry faces increasing pressures from regulatory bodies and market forces to adopt more sustainable practices. New regulations mandate lower carbon emissions and more eco-friendly operations, compelling EPC companies to integrate these requirements into their operational frameworks.

• Renewable Energy Projects: The shift towards renewable energy is a cornerstone of this transformation. We are expanding our capabilities to include large-scale renewable energy projects, such as wind, solar, and hydrogen. Our extensive experience in managing complex projects enables us to effectively incorporate these sustainable energy solutions into our operations.

• Client and Public Expectations: There is a growing expectation from clients and the public for EPC companies to meet ambitious sustainability targets. To safeguard our reputation and capitalize on business opportunities, integrating sustainability into our core strategy is imperative.

• Technological Innovations: The advent of digital transformation and advanced technologies is revolutionizing the EPC sector. We are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), digital tools, and cutting-edge technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), drones, and wearable technologies. These innovations enhance project planning, real-time monitoring, and resource efficiency, thereby reducing environmental impacts.

• Supply Chain Transparency: Achieving sustainability also requires transparency throughout the supply chain. We are adopting practices that enhance visibility and accountability, ensuring that environmental impacts are minimized and ethical standards are upheld.

• Long-Term Sustainability Focus: Balancing immediate energy demands with long-term sustainability goals is critical. We are investing in new skills and resources to support this dual focus, ensuring that we meet current needs while preparing for a sustainable future.

At Nuberg EPC, our commitment extends beyond compliance to actively driving the development of green and sustainable solutions. Our projects in renewable energy, hydrogen fuel stations, and bio-ethanol plants are designed to reduce carbon footprints and enhance energy independence. For instance, our advanced hydrogen fueling station represents a significant step towards clean transportation. By embedding sustainability into every facet of our operations, embracing green technologies, and optimizing resources, we are dedicated to leading global sustainability efforts and delivering long-term value to our stakeholders.

Que: How can EPCs have a greater impact on the value chain through standardization and technology improvements, especially for hydrogen projects?

Ans: EPCs play a crucial role in enhancing their impact on the hydrogen value chain through strategic initiatives such as modular designs, process optimization, and the integration of advanced technologies. These efforts aim to reduce costs, improve scalability, and ensure efficiency and safety throughout project execution.

Implementing modular designs and optimizing processes at manufacturing units are key strategies that contribute to cost reduction and scalability in hydrogen projects. Advanced technologies like automation, robotics, and smart sensors are seamlessly integrated into these projects to enhance precision, efficiency, and safety standards.

Safety practices are rigorously enforced through standardized procedures and comprehensive training programs. Our track record of zero accidents underscores our commitment to workplace safety, with milestones such as achieving 1 million LTI-free safe man-hours at the 5740-NPK Plant - FACT-CD. This achievement reflects our dedication to maintaining a safe working environment.

Effective supply chain management is facilitated by implementing standardized requirements from suppliers and leveraging digital tools. This approach eliminates delays, ensures top-notch performance standards, and enhances overall project reliability.

Collaborative efforts within the industry drive innovation and the establishment of unified standards, further strengthening our position in advancing hydrogen solutions. Stringent control of regulatory compliance and certifications enhances credibility and mitigates risks associated with non-compliance.

At Nuberg EPC, we invest in state-of-the-art facilities and technologies to support our commitment to standardizing components and advancing hydrogen solutions. Our Gujarat fabrication plant exemplifies this commitment, while our ongoing R&D efforts at the Nuberg Innovation & Technology Centre focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies. For instance, our patented hydrogen peroxide technology features a high-yield process design, enabling us to deliver efficient and high-quality hydrogen solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and the industry.

Que: What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges for the hydrogen industry in the coming years, and how is Nuberg EPC positioning itself to capitalize on these trends?

Ans: Hydrogen is truly shaping up to be a game-changer in our journey towards sustainable energy. It’s a field brimming with potential, offering exciting opportunities across various industries. However, it’s also clear that we face some significant challenges. Let me walk you through both the promising possibilities and the key hurdles we need to tackle in the hydrogen sector.

Opportunities in the Hydrogen Industry:

• Decarbonization of Heavy Industries: Hydrogen has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in sectors such as steel and cement, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional methods.

• Energy Storage and Security: Hydrogen facilitates the storage of excess renewable energy from wind and solar sources, helping to balance the grid and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

• Advancement in Transportation: Hydrogen can revolutionize transportation, especially for heavy-duty vehicles, by offering longer ranges and faster refueling times, thereby complementing electric vehicles.

• Economic Growth and Green Jobs: The hydrogen sector is poised to stimulate economic growth, create green jobs, and drive innovation in manufacturing and infrastructure.

• Technological Innovation: Continued research and development in the hydrogen industry are expected to lead to breakthroughs in production and utilization, reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.

Challenges in the Hydrogen Industry:

• High Production Costs: The production of green hydrogen is currently expensive, necessitating advancements in technology and scaled-up production to lower costs.

• Infrastructure Development: Significant investment is required for the development of production facilities, storage systems, and refueling stations to support the widespread use of hydrogen.

• Energy Efficiency: Improving the energy efficiency of hydrogen production, storage, and utilization is essential for it to become a viable energy option.

• Storage and Distribution: The low energy density of hydrogen poses challenges for its storage and distribution, requiring cost-effective solutions and robust networks.

• Safety Measures: The flammability of hydrogen demands strict safety protocols throughout its lifecycle to ensure safe handling and use.

Nuberg EPC's Strategy

At Nuberg EPC, we are committed to advancing the hydrogen industry through significant investments in research and development. Our strategy focuses on scalable hydrogen production and the enhancement of storage and distribution technologies. This commitment is evident in key projects such as our commercial-scale hydrogen fueling station and bio-ethanol initiatives. We leverage our extensive experience with major projects, including India’s largest Green PVC Chlor-Alkali Project with the Adani Group, the NPK Fertilizer plant, and the Hydrogen Peroxide 40,000 MTPA facility with PT Sulfindo Adiusaha in Indonesia. With 28 years of experience and over 60 turnkey projects delivered across 32 countries, Nuberg EPC has established itself as a leader in hydrogen solutions.

Our best-in-class R&D facility large manufacturing plant in India, combined with our expertise in digital technologies like IoT and AI, bolster our position in the hydrogen sector. These resources enable us to support the clean energy transition effectively and contribute to a sustainable future.