In a significant move towards a sustainable energy future, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This mission aims to leverage green hydrogen as a key enabler for India’s energy transition, reducing carbon emissions, and achieving energy independence.
With an initial outlay of Rs. 19,744 crore, the mission sets ambitious targets and outlines various strategies to promote the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen.
Driving India’s Energy Transition:
India’s ambitious vision of becoming energy independent by 2047 and achieving Net Zero by 2070 necessitates a rapid increase in renewable energy adoption across all sectors. Green hydrogen, categorized as the hydrogen produced through electrolysis using electricity generated from renewable sources, holds immense potential in this transition. It can serve as a reliable energy storage solution, replace fossil fuels in industries, propel clean transportation, and potentially power decentralized electricity generation, aviation, and marine transport.
Mission Objectives:
The National Green Hydrogen Mission was approved on January 4, 2022, with the following objectives in mind:
- Leading Producer and Supplier: The mission aims to position India as a leading producer and supplier of green hydrogen in the global market, capitalizing on the country’s abundant renewable energy resources.
- Export Opportunities: By creating export opportunities for green hydrogen and its derivatives, India can not only strengthen its economy but also contribute to global decarbonization efforts.
- Reduced Dependence on Imported Fossil Fuels: The mission seeks to reduce India’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and feedstock, enhancing energy security and mitigating the risks associated with price fluctuations.
- Indigenous Manufacturing Capabilities: Development of indigenous manufacturing capabilities for green hydrogen technologies will foster self-reliance, boost domestic industries, and create employment opportunities.
- Investment and Business Opportunities: The mission targets attracting substantial investments and business opportunities, fostering innovation, and catalyzing the growth of the green hydrogen industry in India.
- Employment and Economic Development: By creating over six lakh jobs, the mission aims to contribute to economic development while addressing the pressing issue of unemployment.
- Research and Development: The mission intends to support research and development projects that are goal-oriented, time-bound, and focused on developing globally competitive green hydrogen technologies.
Mission Outcomes:
By 2030, the National Green Hydrogen Mission is expected to achieve the following outcomes:
- Green Hydrogen Production Capacity: A minimum green hydrogen production capacity of 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) per annum will be established, enabling the integration of renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country.
- Total Investments: The mission is projected to attract over Rs. eight lakh crore in total investments, driving economic growth and creating new avenues for businesses.
- Job Creation: With the establishment and growth of the green hydrogen industry, the mission aims to generate employment opportunities for more than six lakh individuals, contributing to social development.
- Reduction in Fossil Fuel Imports: The cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports is estimated to exceed Rs. one lakh crore, strengthening India’s energy independence and reducing trade deficits.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions Abatement: The mission’s initiatives are expected to abate nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions, making a significant contribution towards climate change mitigation.
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What is the National Green Hydrogen Mission?
The National Green Hydrogen Mission is an initiative approved by the Union Cabinet of India, aimed at promoting the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen. It seeks to leverage renewable energy sources and electrolysis technology to develop a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem in India.
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How does Green Hydrogen differ from Grey and Blue Hydrogen?
Green Hydrogen is produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources, making it a sustainable and low-carbon alternative. In contrast, Grey Hydrogen is produced through carbon-intensive processes like coal or natural gas gasification, while Blue Hydrogen incorporates carbon capture technologies to reduce emissions during production.
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What are the main benefits of the National Green Hydrogen Mission?
The mission offers several benefits, including the creation of export opportunities for green hydrogen and its derivatives, decarbonization of industrial, mobility, and energy sectors, reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels, development of indigenous manufacturing capabilities, job creation, and the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions.
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How will the National Green Hydrogen Mission contribute to India’s energy transition?
The mission plays a crucial role in India’s energy transition by promoting the use of green hydrogen as a clean energy source. It facilitates the integration of renewable energy capacity, reduces carbon emissions, supports indigenous manufacturing, attracts investments, and drives the development of cutting-edge technologies.
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How can the National Green Hydrogen Mission impact India’s economy?
The mission is expected to attract significant investments, create job opportunities, and contribute to economic growth. It aims to reduce fossil fuel imports, potentially saving over Rs. one lakh crore, while also fostering the growth of the green hydrogen industry, which can generate economic activity and open up new business avenues.
Learn about FAME India Scheme
Conclusion:
The National Green Hydrogen Mission holds immense promise in propelling India’s transition to a sustainable and carbon-neutral future. By promoting the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen, the mission will drive economic growth, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create employment opportunities.
The government’s commitment to renewable energy, indigenous manufacturing, and research and development will foster a thriving ecosystem for green hydrogen in India, positioning the country as a global leader in the clean energy sector. As we strive towards achieving energy independence and a net-zero future, the National Green Hydrogen Mission serves as a crucial milestone on this transformative journey.
