India is taking bold steps to position itself as a global leader in green hydrogen production through the National Green Hydrogen Mission. With an initial allocation of ₹19,744 crore in January 2023, the mission aims to establish a robust green hydrogen ecosystem, targeting an annual production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonnes) by leveraging 125 GW of renewable energy. This initiative is central to India’s commitment to reducing emissions, fostering energy security, and driving sustainable economic growth.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the government is providing viability gap funding for 3,000 MW of annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity. Electrolysers play a critical role in producing green hydrogen by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity. Contracts for these manufacturing units are already in progress, showcasing the country’s commitment to scaling production. Additionally, green hydrogen production capacity of 412,000 tons per annum has been awarded, marking a significant milestone in the mission's execution.
The mission also seeks to attract investments worth ₹8 lakh crore, create over six lakh jobs, and reduce fossil fuel imports by more than ₹1 lakh crore cumulatively. By 2030, it aims to abate nearly 50 MMT of greenhouse gas emissions annually. The Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT) under the mission includes financial incentives to promote domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
To further its objectives, the mission is identifying and developing regions as Green Hydrogen Hubs, focusing on areas with high potential for large-scale production and utilization. Pilot projects are also being supported to explore emerging production pathways and end-use applications of green hydrogen in sectors such as mobility, industry, and energy storage.
This green hydrogen initiative aligns with India's larger renewable energy goals, including the Prime Minister’s COP26 commitment to achieve 500 GW of installed capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030. As of October 2024, the country has already achieved 211.40 GW of non-fossil power capacity, underscoring its steady progress towards this target.
India's concerted efforts to integrate green hydrogen into its energy mix not only aim to meet domestic energy needs sustainably but also position the country as a global hub for green hydrogen innovation and export.
Conclusion
India's ambitious strides in green hydrogen production under the National Green Hydrogen Mission showcase its commitment to a sustainable and energy-secure future. By fostering domestic manufacturing of electrolysers, advancing renewable energy integration, and incentivizing green hydrogen production, the mission is set to revolutionize the energy landscape. These efforts will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels but also drive significant economic growth through investments and job creation. With its proactive policies and strategic initiatives, India is positioning itself as a global leader in the green hydrogen economy, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet.
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