Relevance: GS Paper III – Science & Technology, Environment & Energy; Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
News at a Glance
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has invited proposals worth ₹100 crore under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) for biomass- and waste-based hydrogen pilot projects.
The Mission has already allocated incentives for 3,000 MW/year electrolyser manufacturing and 8.62 lakh metric tonnes/year of green hydrogen production, aiming to mobilise ₹8 lakh crore investment, create 6 lakh jobs, and save ₹1 lakh crore in fossil fuel imports annually.
What is Green Hydrogen and Its Uses
Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable electricity (solar or wind) through electrolysis of water, resulting in zero carbon emissions. It is crucial for decarbonising industries that cannot easily switch to renewables.
|
Parameter |
Details |
| Definition | Hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources via electrolysis. |
| Carbon Emission | Almost zero (no fossil fuel combustion). |
| Storage Form | Can be stored as gas, liquid, or in compounds like ammonia. |
| Main Uses | – Steel and cement industries (clean fuel) – Fertiliser production (green ammonia) – Heavy transport (shipping, aviation) – Power generation and grid balancing. |
Why it matters: Green hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in hard-to-abate sectors, enhance energy security, and open export opportunities in clean fuels.
Manufacturing Techniques
|
Technique |
Feedstock / Process | Carbon Impact |
Remarks |
| Green Hydrogen | Renewable power + water → hydrogen + oxygen (electrolysis) | Zero | Primary focus under NGHM. |
| Biomass Gasification | Waste or biomass converted to hydrogen via thermal/chemical processes | Low | Useful for circular economy; pilot projects launched. |
| Blue Hydrogen | Natural gas with carbon capture | Moderate | Transitional option; partial emission reduction. |
| Grey Hydrogen | Natural gas + steam → hydrogen + CO₂ | High | Conventional process; polluting. |
India’s focus is on renewable electrolysis and biomass-based hydrogen, ensuring sustainability and domestic value addition.
The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM)
Launched in January 2023 with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore, NGHM aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production, use, and export.
|
Key Targets (by 2030) |
Expected Outcomes |
| Produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually | Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels |
| Add 125 GW renewable energy capacity | Expands clean energy base |
| Attract ₹8 lakh crore investment | Strengthens green industry ecosystem |
| Cut 50 million tonnes of CO₂ annually | Contributes to India’s net-zero goals |
| Create 6 lakh jobs | Boosts green employment opportunities |
Ongoing Initiatives:
- Electrolyser manufacturing incentives under the Strategic Interventions Scheme.
- Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs at ports and industrial clusters.
- Skill development: Over 6,300 professionals certified in hydrogen technologies.
- Pilot projects on biomass-to-hydrogen, transport, and storage technologies.
Way Forward
|
Focus Area |
Policy Direction |
| Market Creation | Mandate green hydrogen use in fertiliser, refinery, and steel sectors. |
| Cost Reduction | Lower renewable power and electrolyser costs through R&D and scale. |
| Infrastructure | Develop pipelines, storage systems, and port export facilities. |
| Safety & Standards | Frame technical and safety regulations for hydrogen storage and transport. |
| International Collaboration | Promote India-led green fuel exports and cooperation under Global Biofuel Alliance. |
Key Takeaways
- Green hydrogen is central to India’s energy independence and decarbonisation strategy.
- The NGHM combines industrial policy, innovation, and sustainability for global competitiveness.
- India’s focus on biomass-based hydrogen adds a circular economy dimension.
- Effective execution will depend on demand creation, cost competitiveness, and infrastructure readiness.
One-line Wrap:
India’s Green Hydrogen Mission is turning clean energy ambition into action — building a low-carbon economy powered by innovation, investment, and inclusivity.
UPSC Mains Question:
“Discuss the significance of green hydrogen for India’s clean energy transition. How does the National Green Hydrogen Mission aim to achieve this vision?”
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