Introduction

In a significant move towards achieving sustainable energy goals, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in India has launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission. With an ambitious objective to position India as a global hub for the production, usage, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives, this mission is set to revolutionize the country’s energy landscape. Approved by the Union Cabinet in January 2023, the mission has an impressive budget of Rs. 19,744 crore. This article explores the status of green hydrogen adoption in India, the key initiatives undertaken by various entities, and the expected outcomes of this groundbreaking mission.

 

Current Status of Green Hydrogen Adoption in India

India’s journey towards embracing green hydrogen has already begun. GAIL Limited, a prominent public sector undertaking, has initiated a pioneering project of blending hydrogen in the City Gas Distribution grid. In the state of Madhya Pradesh, 2% by volume of hydrogen is being blended in the CNG network, while 5% by volume is being blended into the PNG network at the City Gas Station of Avantika Gas Limited (AGL), Indore.

Another major player, NTPC Limited, has commenced the blending of green hydrogen up to 8% (vol/vol) in the PNG Network at NTPC Kawas Township in Surat, Gujarat. These initiatives mark significant milestones in the adoption of green hydrogen in India, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

Several other public sector undertakings (PSUs) have also embarked on various projects to promote the use of green hydrogen. NTPC is leading the way by introducing hydrogen-based fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) buses in Leh and Greater Noida. Meanwhile, Oil India Limited has developed a 60 kW capacity hydrogen fuel cell bus, which combines an electric drive with a fuel cell, offering an innovative solution for sustainable transportation.

Indian Oil, one of the country’s largest oil and gas companies, is actively involved in the production of green hydrogen through different technologies. They are implementing demonstration pilot plants for the production of green hydrogen through water electrolysis using solar power, biomass oxy steam gasification, and CBG reforming. These projects aim to refuel 15 hydrogen fuel cell buses, further promoting the adoption of green hydrogen in the transportation sector.

Additionally, various entities have announced plans to establish production facilities for green hydrogen and green ammonia in India. These initiatives highlight the growing interest and commitment towards transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources.

 

Expected Outcomes of the National Green Hydrogen Mission

While the current adoption of green hydrogen in India is still in its nascent stages, the National Green Hydrogen Mission holds immense potential for transformative outcomes. By 2030, India aims to achieve a green hydrogen production capacity of 5 MMT per annum, significantly reducing the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. This achievement is projected to save a cumulative Rs. 1 lakh crore worth of fossil fuel imports by 2030, contributing to both economic and environmental sustainability.

The ambitious targets set by the National Green Hydrogen Mission are expected to attract a total investment of over Rs. 8 lakh crore and create more than 6 lakh jobs. This massive infusion of capital and employment opportunities will not only drive economic growth but also accelerate the energy transition towards a greener future.

Under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) scheme, the mission has issued a Request for Selection (RfS) for green hydrogen producers to set up production facilities with a capacity of 450,000 tons in India. This scheme aims to incentivize and support the establishment of green hydrogen production infrastructure, facilitating the growth of the green hydrogen sector in the country.

 

Conclusion

The National Green Hydrogen Mission in India is a bold and visionary step towards achieving energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable development. With substantial investments, innovative projects, and strategic interventions, India is poised to become a global leader in green hydrogen production, usage, and export.

The ongoing adoption of green hydrogen in the country, demonstrated by projects in the City Gas Distribution grid, fuel-cell electric vehicle buses, and hydrogen fuel cell technology, is just the beginning of a transformative energy revolution. As the National Green Hydrogen Mission progresses, India’s dependence on imported fossil fuels will diminish, leading to substantial cost savings and a significant reduction in carbon emissions.

The expected outcomes of the mission, including a substantial increase in green hydrogen production capacity, job creation, and total investments, highlight the immense potential of this clean energy source. By harnessing the power of green hydrogen, India is paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future, while reaffirming its commitment to combat climate change and create a greener planet for generations to come.

“The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a game-changer for India’s energy transition, positioning the country as a global hub for green hydrogen production. With significant investments, innovative projects, and strategic interventions, India is at the forefront of the clean energy revolution.” – Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy and Power R. K. Singh

 

 

References

1. Official Press Release: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
2. National Green Hydrogen Mission: Union Cabinet, Government of India.