Digital Team HGPL, Author at Hydrogengentech

Introduction

The energy sector is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly fuel sources. One such innovation that holds immense promise is the blending of green hydrogen with natural gas. Green hydrogen, also known as renewable hydrogen, is produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. This clean and abundant source of energy has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including industry, renewable energy, fuel, and mobility. In this article, we will explore the pioneering efforts of NTPC in blending green hydrogen with piped natural gas (PNG) and its implications for the energy industry.

The Need for Green Hydrogen Blending

The blending of green hydrogen with natural gas is driven by two major factors: energy security and decarbonization. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and reducing carbon emissions, finding sustainable and reliable sources of energy has become imperative. Green hydrogen offers a viable solution to these challenges by providing a clean and renewable fuel source that can be integrated into existing infrastructure, such as the PNG network.

NTPC’s Pilot Project in Surat

NTPC, India’s state-run power giant, has embarked on a groundbreaking pilot project in its Kawas township in Surat, Gujarat. This project, which has been running for the past nine months, is the first of its kind in India, blending green hydrogen with natural gas. The project is a joint effort between NTPC and Gujarat Gas Limited, a leading gas distribution company.

The pilot project aims to assess the feasibility and economic viability of blending green hydrogen with PNG. By blending up to 10 percent green hydrogen with the existing PNG network, NTPC aims to demonstrate that this solution can be more economical than conventional liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Initial data shared by NTPC indicates that the cost of using 5 percent hydrogen blended PNG is Rs 63.95 per month lower than LPG, while for 10 percent blended PNG, the cost reduction stands at Rs 5.77 per month.

Benefits and Challenges of Green Hydrogen Blending

The blending of green hydrogen with PNG offers several benefits. First and foremost, it reduces carbon emissions, contributing to the global efforts to combat climate change. Green hydrogen is a clean fuel that produces only water vapor when burned, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Additionally, blending green hydrogen with PNG enhances energy security by diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependence on traditional fuel sources.

However, there are also challenges associated with green hydrogen blending. One of the key challenges is the cost of production and infrastructure development. While green hydrogen has the potential to be cost-competitive with conventional fuels in the long run, the initial investments required for electrolyzers and storage facilities can be significant. Additionally, scaling up production and establishing a robust supply chain will be crucial for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen blending.

Pilot Project Findings and Future Outlook

The pilot project conducted by NTPC has yielded positive results thus far. The gas composition at 5 percent blending showed perfect homogeneity, indicating that the blending process does not adversely affect the natural gas pipeline network. The material assessment of the PNG network also revealed no adverse effects on pipelines, burners, or rubber seals, further validating the feasibility of green hydrogen blending.

Looking ahead, NTPC plans to continue its efforts to optimize the blending process and explore the potential of scaling up production. The success of the pilot project in Surat paves the way for wider adoption of green hydrogen blending across the country. As technology advances and economies of scale are achieved, the cost of green hydrogen production is expected to decrease, making it a more viable and attractive option for various industries.

Hydrogen Gentech Private Limited (HGPL)

In the pursuit of green hydrogen, HGPL is an international technology-based manufacturer and supplier of hydrogen generation plants based in India. The company specializes in the development and implementation of green hydrogen generation, purification, and recovery technologies. With a clear focus on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, HGPL is at the forefront of driving the adoption of green hydrogen in various sectors, including industry, renewable energy, fuel, and mobility.

Conclusion

The integration of green hydrogen into the energy industry has the potential to reshape the way we produce and consume energy. NTPC’s pilot project in Surat highlights the economic viability and environmental benefits of blending green hydrogen with PNG. As the world continues to prioritize sustainability and decarbonization, green hydrogen will play a crucial role in achieving these goals. With companies like HGPL driving innovation and technology advancements, the future of green hydrogen looks promising. As we transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, green hydrogen is poised to become a game-changer in the energy industry.

Introduction

The world is witnessing a paradigm shift towards sustainable energy sources, and hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer in the quest for a greener future. In line with this global trend, NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation) has taken a significant step towards achieving carbon neutrality by initiating the trial run of hydrogen buses in Leh, India. This pioneering project aims to demonstrate the viability and efficiency of hydrogen as an alternative fuel for public transportation. The first hydrogen bus arrived in Leh on August 17, marking the beginning of a three-month-long process of field trials and roadworthiness tests. This article delves into the details of this groundbreaking initiative and its potential impact on the future of sustainable mobility.

The Green Hydrogen Mobility Project

The Green Hydrogen Mobility Project, spearheaded by NTPC, is a testament to India’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. Located at an altitude of 11,562 ft, this project is co-located with a dedicated solar plant with a capacity of 1.7 MW, ensuring a renewable and carbon-neutral power source for the hydrogen generation process. The key highlight of this project is the deployment of fuel cell buses that are specifically designed for operation in sub-zero temperatures and rarefied atmospheres, which are typical of high-altitude regions like Leh.

NTPC’s Vision for a Green Future

NTPC, a leading power generation company in India, has set ambitious goals to achieve 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032. As part of its decarbonization initiatives, the company is actively exploring various technologies, including hydrogen blending, carbon capture, electric buses, and smart NTPC townships. By venturing into the green hydrogen technology and energy storage domain, NTPC aims to become a major player in the transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon future.

The Significance of Green Hydrogen

Green hydrogen, produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, holds immense potential as a clean and versatile energy carrier. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods, which rely on fossil fuels, green hydrogen offers a sustainable alternative that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. It can be used in various sectors, including industry, transportation, and power generation, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.

The Advantages of Hydrogen Buses

Hydrogen buses, also known as fuel cell buses, offer several advantages over conventional diesel or electric buses. These advantages make them an attractive option for sustainable and zero-emission public transportation:

Zero Emissions: Hydrogen buses emit only water vapor and do not release harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases during operation, making them a clean and environmentally friendly transportation solution.
Extended Range: Hydrogen buses have a longer range compared to electric buses, eliminating concerns about limited battery capacity and reducing the need for frequent recharging.
Fast Refueling: Hydrogen refueling is as quick and convenient as refueling conventional vehicles, with a refueling time of around five minutes, comparable to filling up a tank with gasoline or diesel.
Versatility: Hydrogen buses can operate in extreme weather conditions, including sub-zero temperatures, making them suitable for regions with challenging climates.

Hydrogen Gentech Private Limited (HGPL)

Hydrogen Gentech Private Limited (HGPL) is an Indian company at the forefront of green hydrogen generation, purification, and recovery technologies. With a strong focus on sustainability and green solutions, HGPL is actively involved in developing hydrogen generation plants for various industries, renewable energy projects, and mobility sectors. Their expertise and technologies play a crucial role in supporting initiatives of Green Hydrogen Projects, ensuring the efficient and reliable production of clean hydrogen.

The Roadmap for Future Implementation

The successful trial run of hydrogen buses in Leh paves the way for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen in public transportation across India. NTPC and other stakeholders are actively working towards establishing hydrogen refueling infrastructure, developing fuel cell technologies, and optimizing the overall efficiency of hydrogen-based transportation systems. By creating an ecosystem that supports the production, distribution, and utilization of green hydrogen, India can accelerate its transition towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.

Conclusion

NTPC’s initiation of the trial run of hydrogen buses in Leh marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. The Green Hydrogen Mobility Project demonstrates the potential of hydrogen as a clean and versatile energy carrier, particularly in the transportation sector. With the advent of hydrogen buses, India is poised to reduce its carbon footprint and improve air quality in urban areas. As the world embraces the power of green hydrogen, it is evident that sustainable mobility solutions like hydrogen buses will play a vital role in shaping a cleaner and more sustainable world for future generations.

Introduction

The global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has propelled the demand for green hydrogen, a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Central to the production of green hydrogen is the electrolyzer, a crucial technology that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. India, with its burgeoning renewable energy sector and growing technological capabilities, has the potential to emerge as a global manufacturing hub for green hydrogen electrolyzers. This technical blog delves into the factors that position India as a manufacturing powerhouse for electrolyzers and examines the challenges and opportunities on this transformative journey.

Understanding Electrolyzers

Electrolyzers are pivotal components of the green hydrogen production process. These devices utilize electrical energy to initiate the electrolysis of water, resulting in the separation of hydrogen and oxygen gases. Electrolyzers consist of several key components:

Anode and Cathode: These electrodes facilitate the electrochemical reaction by serving as sites for oxidation (anode) and reduction (cathode) processes.
Electrolyte: An ion-conductive material that facilitates the movement of ions between the anode and cathode.
Power Supply: An external electrical source that provides the energy required for the electrolysis process.
Separator: A physical barrier that prevents the mixing of the produced hydrogen and oxygen gases.
Cooling and Ventilation Systems: These systems maintain optimal operating temperatures and ensure safe gas venting.

India’s Potential as a Manufacturing Hub

Abundant Renewable Energy: India boasts abundant solar and wind energy resources, creating a conducive environment for green hydrogen production. Electrolyzers require a consistent energy supply, making India’s renewable capacity a major advantage.
Skilled Workforce: India’s strong engineering and technical talent pool positions it to drive innovation in electrolyzer manufacturing, from design to production and maintenance.
Manufacturing Expertise: The country’s experience in manufacturing industries, combined with advancements in automation and robotics, contributes to efficient and high-quality production processes.
Cost Competitiveness: India’s manufacturing capabilities can potentially lead to cost-effective electrolyzer production, which is crucial for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen.
Government Initiatives: The Indian government’s focus on renewable energy and hydrogen as part of its energy mix supports the growth of electrolyzer manufacturing.

Challenges and Opportunities

Research and Development: While India possesses the foundational knowledge, increased investment in research and development is essential to refine electrolyzer technology and enhance efficiency.
Infrastructure Development: Establishing advanced manufacturing facilities, supply chains, and logistics networks will be pivotal to realizing India’s manufacturing potential.
Global Collaboration: Collaborations with international electrolyzer manufacturers can facilitate technology transfer, skill enhancement, and knowledge exchange.
Regulatory Framework: A clear regulatory framework that promotes innovation, quality standards, and sustainability will be crucial for the growth of the electrolyzer manufacturing industry.
Scaling Up: As demand for green hydrogen grows globally, India must scale up its manufacturing capacity to meet international requirements.

Conclusion

India’s journey towards becoming a global manufacturing hub for green hydrogen electrolyzers holds immense promise for the nation’s energy transition and the global effort to combat climate change. With its renewable energy potential, skilled workforce, and manufacturing expertise, India can lead the way in producing efficient and cost-effective electrolyzers. By addressing challenges and capitalizing on opportunities, India can contribute significantly to a greener and more sustainable energy future, advancing the global adoption of green hydrogen and driving positive change on a global scale.

Source: Economic Times Energy

Introduction

In a monumental leap towards embracing clean and sustainable energy solutions, India is set to witness the establishment of its inaugural hydrogen fuel facility. This landmark initiative, which is scheduled to take shape in the state of Jharkhand, signifies a resolute step towards reducing carbon emissions and diversifying the nation’s energy portfolio. This blog explores the significance of India’s first hydrogen fuel facility, its potential implications for the country’s energy landscape, and its role in driving a greener, more sustainable future.

A Glimpse into Hydrogen Fuel Facilities

Hydrogen fuel facilities represent a pivotal juncture in the global energy transition. These facilities leverage the power of hydrogen, one of the cleanest and most abundant elements in the universe, to produce energy. Through processes like electrolysis, hydrogen is extracted from water using renewable energy sources, thereby generating electricity and emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. This carbon-neutral approach holds immense promise for decarbonizing various sectors, including transportation, industry, and power generation.

Jharkhand’s Pioneering Initiative

The Indian state of Jharkhand is poised to make history by becoming the home of the country’s first hydrogen fuel facility. This transformative project is expected to set a precedent for harnessing clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The upcoming facility is a testament to Jharkhand’s commitment to sustainable development and its determination to contribute to India’s ambitious climate goals.

The Implications of India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Facility

Carbon Emission Reduction: The establishment of a hydrogen fuel facility aligns with India’s commitment to mitigate carbon emissions. By transitioning to hydrogen-based energy, the nation can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Energy Diversification: The advent of a hydrogen fuel facility underscores India’s determination to diversify its energy sources. This initiative reduces reliance on conventional fossil fuels and ushers in an era of cleaner, more versatile energy options.
Clean Transportation: Hydrogen-based fuel holds the potential to revolutionize the transportation sector. From fuel cell vehicles to public transport systems, the adoption of hydrogen fuel can lead to emission-free mobility and improved air quality.
Industrial Growth: The facility’s impact extends to industries by offering a cleaner energy source for various processes. Industries such as steel, chemicals, and manufacturing can embrace hydrogen as a means to achieve sustainable growth.
Innovation and Leadership: India’s foray into hydrogen fuel facilities demonstrates its commitment to embracing innovation and leading the way in clean energy adoption. This initiative is expected to inspire other states and regions to follow suit.

A Greener Future on the Horizon

As the world grapples with environmental challenges and the urgency to address climate change, initiatives like India’s first hydrogen fuel facility provide hope for a more sustainable future. By capitalizing on hydrogen’s potential, Jharkhand is not only enhancing its energy security but also setting a precedent for other regions to adopt clean energy solutions.

Conclusion

The establishment of India’s inaugural hydrogen fuel facility in Jharkhand marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards a cleaner and greener energy landscape. This pioneering initiative showcases the power of innovation, determination, and collaboration in driving sustainable development. As the facility takes shape, it ushers in a new era of clean energy possibilities, inspiring the nation and the world to prioritize environmental stewardship and create a better, more sustainable tomorrow.

Source: The New Indian Express

India’s G20 Presidency Theme: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”

India’s G20 presidency was framed by the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” This theme draws inspiration from the Maha Upanishad, an ancient Sanskrit scripture.
The theme underscores the profound interconnectedness of all life forms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms, emphasizing their reliance on Earth and the broader universe.
It also encapsulates the concept of LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), promoting environmentally sustainable and responsible lifestyle choices, both at the individual and national levels, to pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

India’s G20 Priorities: A Comprehensive Approach India’s G20 presidency centered around several key priorities:

Green Development, Climate Finance & LiFE: Emphasis on environmental sustainability and responsible living choices.
Accelerated, Inclusive & Resilient Growth: Promoting growth that is inclusive and resilient, taking into account the needs of all nations.
Accelerating Progress on SDGs: Focusing on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Technological Transformation & Digital Public Infrastructure: Embracing technology for development and establishing digital public infrastructure.
Multilateral Institutions for the 21st Century: Reforming and revitalizing multilateral institutions to meet contemporary challenges.
Women-led Development: Empowering women in decision-making and socio-economic development.

Working of G20: Tracks of Engagement The G20 operates through two main tracks of engagement:

The Finance Track: Comprising finance ministers and central bank governors.
The Sherpa Track: Led by Sherpas, who serve as personal envoys of member nations’ leaders.

Both tracks include working groups that address specific themes and issues with participation from relevant stakeholders.

The Significance of the G20 The G20 emerged in 1999 in response to the late-1990s financial crises, particularly affecting East Asia and Southeast Asia. Its primary objective is to ensure global financial stability, with a particular focus on involving middle-income countries. The G20 collectively represents 60% of the world’s population, 80% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade.

Key Takeaways from the New Delhi Summit

Inclusion of the African Union:

The African Union (AU), a 55-member bloc, was formally granted permanent membership in the G20, alongside the European Union. Previously, only South Africa was a G20 member from the African continent.
This move aimed to enhance the representation of the Global South within the G20, countering the historically dominant role of G7 countries.
It also occurred in the context of expanding BRICs membership, with nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran joining, potentially positioning it as an alternative to the G20.

New Delhi Declaration:

The New Delhi Leaders’ Summit Declaration was adopted unanimously during the G20 Summit, emphasizing several key priorities set by India.
These priorities encompassed:
- Sustainable economic growth, inequality reduction, and stability.
- Financial inclusion and the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
- Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addressing critical issues like hunger, health, and education.
- Comprehensive commitments to climate action and the implementation of the Paris Agreement.
- Reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs).
- Empowerment of women through dedicated efforts.

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor:

India, along with the United States, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEE-EC).
This economic corridor will encompass rail and port links connecting the Middle East, South Asia, and eventually Europe.
The IMEE-EC seeks to foster economic integration and presents a strategic challenge to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Global Biofuels Alliance:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA), which includes 19 countries and 12 international organizations.
The GBA aims to facilitate global collaboration for the advancement and widespread adoption of biofuels, serving as a central repository of knowledge and expertise.

Differing Views on Ukraine:

The G20 Summit witnessed varying perspectives on the Ukraine conflict, with the New Delhi Declaration avoiding direct criticism of Russia.
While the declaration denounced the use of force for territorial gain, it refrained from naming Russia explicitly, in contrast to previous statements that called for Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine.

In conclusion, India’s G20 presidency and the New Delhi Summit were marked by significant achievements and a commitment to addressing global challenges collectively. The inclusivity of the African Union, the comprehensive New Delhi Declaration, and strategic initiatives like the IMEE-EC and GBA reflect the G20’s evolving role in shaping the world’s economic and political landscape. India’s presidency contributed to the G20’s mission of fostering global cooperation and sustainable development for the well-being of all nations.

Introduction

The world is at a critical juncture in its pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. As the devastating impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, the urgency to transition to cleaner and greener alternatives has never been more pressing. In this context, hydrogen emerges as a key player in the race to decarbonize various sectors of the economy. Acknowledging the immense potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source, Europe has taken a significant step forward. With the final approval of the Action Framework for the Deployment of Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure (AFIR), Europe is set to install hundreds of hydrogen filling stations across the continent by 2030. This landmark decision is a game-changer in the quest for a sustainable future. In this blog, we delve into the significance of AFIR’s approval and its potential to shape the energy landscape of tomorrow.

AFIR: Empowering Hydrogen Mobility

The AFIR is a comprehensive strategy devised by the European Union (EU) to accelerate the deployment of hydrogen refueling infrastructure. One of the major barriers to the widespread adoption of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) has been the lack of a robust network of hydrogen filling stations. AFIR aims to address this challenge by facilitating the establishment of hundreds of hydrogen refueling stations throughout Europe. With targeted investments, policy incentives, and coordinated efforts among EU member states, AFIR will serve as a catalyst for the growth of hydrogen mobility, empowering a cleaner and more sustainable transportation sector.

A Greener Horizon for Transport

The transportation sector accounts for a substantial portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. To meet ambitious climate targets, decarbonizing this sector is imperative. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer a promising solution, as they emit only water vapor, producing zero tailpipe emissions. However, for FCVs to become a viable option for consumers, a reliable network of refueling infrastructure is essential. AFIR’s approval signals a resolute commitment to making green mobility a reality. With a comprehensive hydrogen refueling network in place, consumers can embrace fuel cell vehicles with confidence, reducing their carbon footprint and fostering sustainable transportation options.

Driving Technological Advancement

The approval of AFIR not only accelerates the deployment of hydrogen filling stations but also stimulates innovation and technological advancements. As the demand for hydrogen increases, companies will be incentivized to develop more efficient and cost-effective hydrogen production methods, storage solutions, and fuel cell technologies. This drive for innovation will not only benefit the transportation sector but also extend to other industries, such as energy production, heavy manufacturing, and grid balancing.

Boosting Economic Growth and Job Creation

The installation of hundreds of hydrogen filling stations is not merely an environmental initiative; it is also an economic one. The AFIR’s ambitious plan will create numerous economic opportunities and foster job growth. The construction, operation, and maintenance of hydrogen filling stations will generate employment and stimulate local economies. Additionally, investments in hydrogen infrastructure will spur the growth of hydrogen-related industries, propelling Europe to the forefront of the global hydrogen market.

A Unified Vision for a Greener Future

The approval of AFIR exemplifies the power of collaboration among EU member states. By adopting a unified vision for hydrogen mobility and refueling infrastructure, Europe is demonstrating its commitment to combating climate change and achieving its carbon reduction goals. This collective effort is crucial in making the hydrogen economy a reality and ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.

Conclusion

The final approval of the Action Framework for the Deployment of Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure marks a defining moment in Europe’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. By committing to install hundreds of hydrogen filling stations by 2030, Europe is not only transforming its transportation sector but also leading the way in the global effort to combat climate change. AFIR’s strategic approach, backed by collaboration, investments, and innovation, positions Europe as a pioneer in hydrogen mobility and green energy solutions. As the world watches this ambitious plan unfold, Europe sets a compelling example for the rest of the globe to embrace hydrogen as a powerful force in shaping a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

Denso, a Toyota automotive parts supplier, has ambitious plans to bring its solid-oxide electrolyser (SOE) to the market by 2030, according to local reports. It is even suggested that the first sales could be finalized as early as 2025, as reported by Japanese newspaper Nikkei.

Earlier this year, Denso announced its intention to develop an in-house SOE and conducted the first demonstration at its Hirose plant in July. The primary objective of this demonstration was to partially displace the use of grey hydrogen, which is currently employed to remove solder oxide and enhance the joinability of power cards—essential components of inverters used in hybrid or electric vehicles.

The unique feature of Denso’s SOE lies in its capability to split water heated to 700°C into H2 and O2. This process requires less power to produce hydrogen compared to more mature alkaline and proton-exchange membrane technologies, which typically operate at a lower temperature of 60°C.

However, one of the challenges associated with SOEs is the need for an external heat source due to the extremely high water temperature requirement. Without a readily available exothermic industrial process or power source producing substantial steam, additional electricity is required to heat the electrolyser.

Denso has highlighted the importance of maintaining the high temperature in SOEs, as heat dissipation occurs rapidly in such systems due to the temperature difference with the surroundings. This necessitates extra energy to keep the system hot, while some of the water vapor passes through the system without undergoing the desired reaction.

To address these challenges, Denso has developed a structure that efficiently recovers exhaust heat while minimizing heat dissipation from the heat exchanger surface. Additionally, the company has implemented a system to re-circulate steam, utilizing technologies similar to those used in vehicle parts. Moreover, Denso’s design integrates heat insulation with the electrolyser cell, ensuring the entire system remains compact. This approach contrasts with the common practice of assembling these two components separately in most SOEs.

By aiming for a commercial launch of its solid-oxide electrolyser by 2030, Denso demonstrates its commitment to advancing green hydrogen production technology. The potential for first sales by 2025 underlines the company’s determination to bring sustainable energy solutions to the market at the earliest opportunity. As Denso continues to refine and optimize its SOE, the world eagerly anticipates the role this technology will play in driving the green hydrogen revolution forward.

JSW Energy, a subsidiary of the Indian conglomerate JSW, is on track to commission what could potentially be India’s largest green hydrogen plant within the next 18 to 24 months. The facility, located in the northern state of Rajasthan, will utilize 25MW of renewable electricity to produce an annual volume of 3,800 tonnes of hydrogen. Although the electrolyser size is expected to be around 12MW, it will still be the largest in India upon commencement of operations.

JSW Energy’s CEO, Prashant Jain, reported that the company has already identified the site for the plant and is in the final stages of obtaining necessary incentives and approvals from the government of Rajasthan. The project is slated to be commissioned by March 2025, and discussions and negotiations for the machinery and other aspects of the plant are ongoing.

JSW Steel, one of India’s major players in the steel industry, has agreed to procure the hydrogen produced by the plant for use in its Vijayanagar steelworks. Located in the southern state of Karnataka, the Vijayanagar steel plant is one of the world’s largest, boasting a production capacity of 12 million tonnes. The green hydrogen will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and contribute to JSW Steel’s sustainability efforts.

JSW is actively exploring green hydrogen as a key component in its strategy to actively reduce carbon emissions. The adoption of new hydrogen technologies, such as carbon capture, is a vital part of their commitment to sustainability and a cleaner future. The company is also investing in electric arc furnaces, sourcing renewable electricity, and focusing on enhancing energy and process efficiencies. The long-term goal is to substantially reduce thermal coal usage by 2030, inching closer to a zero-emission thermal coal operation.

The iron and steel industry in India currently accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions, releasing approximately 320 million tonnes of CO2 in 2022. To address this challenge, the Indian government has initiated steps towards green steel production, with plans to tender 4.5 billion rupees ($55 million) for pilot green steel plants. Additionally, discussions are underway to potentially mandate the use of green hydrogen in certain sectors, although no final decision has been made on this policy.

JSW Energy’s commitment to establishing the largest green hydrogen plant in India reflects the growing focus on sustainable practices and the pivotal role that green hydrogen can play in decarbonizing industries. As India seeks to achieve its climate goals and transition towards a greener energy landscape, initiatives like this mark a significant step in the right direction.

India, a nation committed to sustainability and clean energy, has made a significant stride towards a greener future by launching its first-ever green hydrogen subsidy auction. The government has set ambitious plans to support a maximum of 450,000 tonnes of annual green hydrogen production capacity. However, it is yet to publish a clear definition of what qualifies as ‘green’ hydrogen.

The auction, organized by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), has a capped capacity of 450,000 tonnes per year. Bidders will receive a maximum of 50 rupees ($0.60) per kilogram in the first year of operation, which will gradually reduce to 40 rupees/kg in the second year and 30 rupees/kg in the third and final year of the subsidy.

Divided into two “buckets,” the auction caters to biomass-based green hydrogen projects and facilities using various technologies for electrolysis. The biomass bucket has 40,000 tonnes per year of capacity, while the technology-agnostic bucket offers 410,000 tonnes of annual production capacity.

Bidders for each bucket will be selected based on the “least average incentive” until the capacity is fully allocated. Any remaining capacity in a bucket may be awarded to bidders from the other bucket if they meet the criteria.

Although previous documents hinted at the publication of a national green hydrogen standard, it has not been released yet by the SECI or the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy websites. It is believed that the standard may include limiting the carbon intensity of green hydrogen to 1kgCO2/kgH2 and requiring an entirely renewable energy source for electrolysis.

While biomass-based projects will not comply with the EU’s renewable H2 standards, which only cover renewable fuels of non-biological origin, it may still be a significant factor in India’s domestic supply of green hydrogen.

The SECI also has the authority to award only part of the requested capacity to bidders, allowing companies a seven-day refusal period before the capacity is offered to another company, with its own seven-day right of refusal.

As of now, no official announcement date has been set for the winning bidders of the subsidy auction.

Hydrogen Insight has reached out to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the SECI for further information on the green hydrogen standard and other details regarding the auction.

India’s first green hydrogen subsidy auction marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey towards sustainable and clean energy. By encouraging investment and innovation in green hydrogen production, India is signaling its dedication to creating a greener and more prosperous future for its citizens and the planet.

US engineering company Cummins and Indian conglomerate Tata are embarking on a joint venture to construct a large-scale factory in India, set to produce thousands of hydrogen internal combustion engines (ICE) annually. The ambitious project, classified as a ‘mega-project,’ is eligible for subsidies from the eastern state of Jharkhand.

The manufacturing facility will be situated in the industrial city of Jamshedpur, within Jharkhand, where Tata currently operates an automobile factory and a massive steelworks. The factory’s primary focus will be the production of 4,000 hydrogen ICEs per year, catering mainly to heavy trucking applications. Additionally, the site will manufacture 10,000 battery systems and an undisclosed number of “fuel agnostic” engines.

Cummins is currently developing two versions of its new H2-ICE technology—a 6.7-liter and a 15-liter model—for medium-duty commercial vehicles and heavy-duty trucking, respectively. The company believes that hydrogen combustion technology is the most practical choice for trucking applications.

No definitive timeline has been announced for the final investment decision or the commencement of commercial operations at the factory. It remains unclear whether the new facility will involve the conversion of existing capacity at Tata’s Jamshedpur plant or require an entirely new site.

The joint venture, known as TSPL Green Energy Solutions Private Limited (TGESPL), received approval from Hemant Soren, Chief Minister of Jharkhand, to proceed with the project over the weekend. The government has designated this venture as a “mega-project,” qualifying it for various subsidies offered to zero-emissions automakers under Jharkhand’s 2021 Industrial Policy. These subsidies include a 50% match funding by the state on capital investment up to 200 million rupees ($2.43 million) and several tax breaks, including a maximum 75% reduction on some of the project’s associated value-added tax (VAT) expenses.

Hydrogen Insight has reached out to Cummins to inquire about their plans to apply for subsidies as part of the joint venture. However, the company has not yet provided any official statement on the matter.

This initiative stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in November 2022 between Tata Motors, Tata’s auto subsidiary, and Cummins. The agreement outlined their collaboration to manufacture and market Cummins’ new hydrogen ICE engine in India, as well as the company’s H2 fuel cell- and battery-powered electric powertrains. As part of this deal, India is expected to be among the first markets to receive Cummins’ H2 ICE engine, with production slated to begin in 2027.

In a previous exclusive interview with Hydrogen Insight, Jim Nebergall, the general manager of Cummins’ hydrogen engine business, highlighted India’s suitability as a market for hydrogen vehicles, particularly in heavy trucking. He emphasized that hydrogen fuel serves as an ideal solution for decarbonization, given the logistical challenges of wholesale electrification in the country.

Tata has also been actively integrating hydrogen-based technology into its other operations, recently employing H2 in a coal-fired blast furnace at its Jamshedpur steelworks.

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Digital Team HGPL, Author at Hydrogengentech - Page 5 of 9

Green Hydrogen-Blended PNG: A Cost-Effective Alternative to LPG, Says NTPC

India’s Inaugural Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Service Launches in Leh, Pioneering Sustainable Mobility

Exploring India’s Potential as a Global Manufacturing Hub for Green Hydrogen Electrolyzers

India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Facility: Jharkhand Embarks on a Transformative Clean Energy Journey

India’s G20 Presidency: Key Highlights and Takeaways

Europe’s Ambitious Plan to Install Hundreds of Hydrogen Filling Stations by 2030

Toyota Supplier Denso Plans Commercial Launch of Solid-Oxide Electrolyser for Green Hydrogen Production by 2030

JSW Energy Aims to Set Up India’s Largest Green Hydrogen Plant within Two Years

India Takes a Significant Step Towards Green Hydrogen: First Subsidy Auction Launched

Cummins and Tata Collaborate on $425 Million Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Factory in India

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