In Short : Amitabh Kant reveals the government’s ambitious plan to transform India into a green hydrogen hub by 2030. This strategic vision underscores a commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and positioning India as a key player in the global green hydrogen landscape.
In Detail : G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog Amitabh Kant has reiterated the government’s commitment to transform India into the hub of green hydrogen by 2030.
Speaking at the Climate Financing Conference in New Delhi, Kant emphasized the goal of becoming a cost-effective producer of green hydrogen, with an ambitious target of reducing the current cost from $4.5 to $1 per kilogram by 2030.
Kant also highlighted the broader benefits of transitioning to a circular economy in India, pointing out its positive impact on environmental conservation, economic growth, and job creation.
Green Hydrogen Initiatives in India:
India’s efforts to embrace green energy have resulted in various initiatives. The government has exempted inter-state transmission charges for 25 years for producers of green hydrogen and green ammonia for projects commissioned before December 31, 2030. The Electricity (Promoting Renewable Energy through Green Energy Open Access) Rules, 2022, facilitate the supply of renewable energy through open access for green hydrogen production.
National Green Hydrogen Mission:
The Union Cabinet approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission on January 4, 2023. The mission aims to achieve a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT per annum, accompanied by an additional renewable energy capacity of about 125 GW by 2030. The mission targets a reduction of ₹1 lakh crore worth of fossil fuel imports by 2030 and the creation of over 6 lakh jobs.
The National Green Hydrogen Mission is expected to bring about a range of benefits, including export opportunities, decarbonization of industrial and energy sectors, reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels, the development of indigenous manufacturing capabilities, job creation, and technological advancements.
Current Adoption Status:
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, some notable projects in the adoption of green hydrogen include GAIL’s blending project in the city gas distribution grid in Indore and NTPC’s blending of green hydrogen in Surat, Gujarat. Other PSUs are also undertaking projects such as hydrogen-based fuel-cell electric vehicle buses and demonstration pilot plants for green hydrogen production using various methods.
