National Green Hydrogen Mission : 10 key points

Unleashing the Potential of Green Hydrogen : India's Path to Energy Independence

As the world grapples with climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, India stands at the forefront of a green energy revolution. The National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023, is a testament to India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and becoming a global hub for green hydrogen production, usage, and export. This blog delves into the 10 key points of National Green Hydrogen Mission and how it positions India to harness green hydrogen's potential to drive economic growth, energy independence, and environmental sustainability.

1.Introduction to Green Hydrogen and India’s Climate Goals

India has set ambitious climate goals, including achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, is crucial to these objectives. It offers a versatile, sustainable energy carrier that can decarbonize various sectors, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and propel India towards a low-carbon economy. The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to establish a robust ecosystem for green hydrogen, addressing both opportunities and challenges in this emerging sector.

2.The Imperative for Green Hydrogen in India

India's energy consumption has doubled over the past two decades and is expected to grow by 25% by 2030. Currently, the country imports over 40% of its primary energy, costing over USD 90 billion annually. Major sectors like transportation and industrial production heavily depend on imported fossil fuels, necessitating a shift to renewable energy sources. Green hydrogen, produced using India’s abundant renewable resources, can play a pivotal role in reducing fossil fuel dependency and supporting the country’s energy transition.

3.Mission Objectives and Targets

The overarching objective of the National Green Hydrogen Mission is to position India as a global leader in green hydrogen production and export. The mission aims to produce at least 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen per year by 2030, with the potential to reach 10 MMT as export markets develop. Key targets include replacing hydrogen derived from fossil fuels with green hydrogen in industries like ammonia production, petroleum refining, and steel manufacturing, and using green hydrogen for synthetic fuels in mobility, shipping, and aviation.

4.Phased Approach to Green Hydrogen Deployment

The mission adopts a phased approach to implement its objectives:

• Phase I (2022-2026): Focuses on creating demand for green hydrogen and enabling supply by increasing domestic electrolyzer manufacturing capacity. This phase targets the refineries, fertilizers, and city gas sectors to create sustained demand and support new investments in green hydrogen production.

• Phase II (2026-2030): Aims to scale up production as green hydrogen becomes cost-competitive with fossil fuels. This phase will explore commercial-scale projects in sectors like steel, mobility, and shipping, with ongoing R&D activities to enhance product development and drive deeper decarbonization.

5.Strategies for Green Hydrogen Production

To produce green hydrogen cost-effectively, India will leverage its experience in renewable energy deployment and policy frameworks. Key strategies include:

• Utilizing Renewable Energy: India’s competitive long-term costs for solar and wind power will support green hydrogen production. Policies will facilitate renewable energy delivery, connectivity, and storage for electrolyser-based projects.

• Boosting Electrolyser Manufacturing: Developing a robust domestic electrolyser manufacturing ecosystem is critical. The mission will encourage domestic production to reduce dependency on imports and ensure cost-competitiveness in international markets.

• Innovative Sourcing Models: Decentralized green hydrogen production using rooftop solar, small hydro plants, and biomass will be explored. This approach minimizes transportation requirements and optimizes resource utilization.

6.Infrastructure Development and Risk Management

The mission emphasizes building the necessary infrastructure for green hydrogen storage, transport, and utilization. Key components include:

• Port Infrastructure: Developing port facilities for exporting green hydrogen derivatives.

• Pipelines: Establishing pipelines for bulk hydrogen transport.

• Hydrogen Hubs: Encouraging collaborative projects between producers and consumers to create large-scale hydrogen hubs.

Risk management strategies will address unfavorable cost economics, regulatory challenges, and supply chain disruptions. The mission will implement measures to mitigate these risks and ensure a stable, scalable green hydrogen ecosystem.

7.Collaborative Governance Framework

Successful implementation of the mission requires coordinated efforts across various government agencies and departments. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) will lead the overall coordination, while other ministries will undertake sector-specific initiatives. For example:

• Ministry of Power: Ensuring renewable energy delivery for green hydrogen production.

• Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas: Facilitating green hydrogen adoption in refineries and city gas distribution.

• Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers: Promoting green ammonia-based fertilizers.

• Ministry of Road Transport and Highways: Supporting green hydrogen adoption in heavy commercial vehicles and long-haul operations.

8.Financial and Technological Support

The mission will explore fiscal and financial frameworks to promote green hydrogen production and utilization. Financial incentives, subsidies, and support for R&D projects will drive technological advancements and cost reductions. International cooperation and engagements will further bolster national efforts, ensuring alignment with global trends in green hydrogen technology and applications.

9.Expected Outcomes and Benefits

The National Green Hydrogen Mission is expected to deliver significant outcomes, including:

• Economic Growth: Establishing India as a global leader in green hydrogen production and export.

• Energy Independence: Reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.

• Environmental Sustainability: Achieving substantial decarbonization across various sectors and contributing to global climate goals.

• Technological Leadership: Positioning India at the forefront of green hydrogen technology and manufacturing.

10.Key Metrics:

These figures highlight the substantial economic, environmental, and technological benefits that the National Green Hydrogen Mission is poised to deliver. Through strategic investments, robust policy support, and collaborative efforts, India is set to become a global leader in the green hydrogen sector, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

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