In Short – RIL, Tata Motors, and IOC spearheading the green hydrogen bid demonstrates corporate giants’ commitment to sustainable energy initiatives. Their leadership not only accelerates India’s transition to renewable fuels but also signifies a collective effort towards combating climate change and fostering a greener future.
In Details – Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Tata Motors, and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) are set to be the primary bidders for a pioneering green hydrogen (GH2) project. This project is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which launched in January 2023 with a budget of Rs 19,744 crore. The bid for this Rs 496-crore project, which opened in February, is closing soon.
GH2, produced using renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, promises to be a clean fuel alternative to hydrogen derived from fossil fuels (grey hydrogen). This project would be a crucial step towards evaluating the feasibility and economic viability of GH2 production, transportation, storage, and utilization in India.
The pilot project aims to address operational challenges and technology readiness gaps, focusing on the entire value chain from hydrogen production to its dispensation and utilization in hydrogen-fueled vehicles. A key requirement for bidders is to form a consortium that includes a vehicle manufacturer. This consortium must also involve a hydrogen fuel supplier and other necessary partners to ensure comprehensive value chain coverage.
RIL is reportedly partnering with Ashok Leyland and Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), while Tata Motors and IOC are forming a consortium. Moreover, these collaborations are in line with the government’s objective to decarbonize the economy. They aim to reduce fossil fuel imports and establish India as a leader in green hydrogen technology.