In July, India embarked on a significant step towards sustainability by releasing guidelines under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aimed at strengthening the country’s infrastructure and regulatory frameworks for green hydrogen production. Directed by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), these guidelines address gaps in current testing facilities for green hydrogen technologies and components. With an allocated budget of Rs. 200 Crores until the fiscal year 2025-26, the government's plan includes the development of new testing facilities and the enhancement of existing ones, crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of green hydrogen operations.Green hydrogen, distinct for being produced via the electrolysis of water using electricity generated from renewable resources like solar and wind, emits no pollutants, making it a key component in tackling climate change. This method contrasts sharply with traditional hydrogen production methods that rely on fossil fuels and emit substantial carbon dioxide.The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) has been appointed to spearhead the implementation of these initiatives, focusing on establishing robust quality and performance testing infrastructure that meets international standards for sustainability and safety in green hydrogen production and use.The inception of India’s Green Hydrogen Mission was propelled by the Union Cabinet’s approval in 2023 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The mission, with a substantial funding of Rs.19,744 Crore, is designed to accelerate the country's transition to green energy. This includes substantial allocations for the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT), pilot projects, research and development, and other mission components, aiming to foster demand, production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen.By 2030, the mission is expected to establish a minimum green hydrogen production capacity of 5 million metric tonnes per annum, accompanied by about 125 GW of added renewable energy capacity. This ambitious agenda is anticipated to stimulate over Rs. Eight lakh crore in investments and generate more than six lakh jobs. Moreover, it projects a significant reduction in fossil fuel imports and a substantial decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.Hydrogen can be categorized based on its production process. Grey hydrogen is produced from natural gas or methane, resulting in high carbon emissions, while blue hydrogen involves carbon capture technologies to reduce emissions. Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, remains the most environmentally friendly option, offering a zero-emission energy source.India’s strategic focus on enhancing its green hydrogen infrastructure, including scaling up its gas pipeline network and integrating smart grids, aims to optimize the integration of renewable energy into the current energy mix. The expected cost parity of green hydrogen with conventional sources by 2030, coupled with India’s advantages in low-cost renewable energy generation, positions it to become one of the most competitive producers of green hydrogen globally.Zero emissionsGreen hydrogen is produced through a process called electrolysis, which involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated from renewable sources. The best part? It produces zero emissions, making it a clean alternative to fossil fuels.The sun and wind as fuelUnlike traditional energy sources that rely on burning fossil fuels, green hydrogen uses power from renewable sources like the sun and wind. This means we can literally create fuel from natural elements without harming the planet.Lightweight powerhouseHydrogen is the lightest element in the universe and carries three times more energy per unit mass than petrol. This makes it incredibly efficient as a fuel source, especially for transportation and industry.Fuel of the futureHydrogen is seen as a key player in the future of clean energy. It can be used in fuel cells to power everything from cars and buses to large buildings and even entire power grids, all while only emitting water vapour.Space explorationHydrogen fuel isn’t just for Earth! It has been used in space travel for decades. The Space Shuttle's external tank was filled with super-cooled liquid hydrogen, which, combined with liquid oxygen, provided the thrust needed to escape Earth's gravity.Storable and transportableOne of the biggest advantages of green hydrogen is that it can be stored and transported, even to areas where it's difficult to deliver other types of renewable energy. This makes it a versatile option for global energy needs.Endless supplySince green hydrogen is produced from water and powered by renewable energy, as long as there's water and the sun or wind, we can keep producing hydrogen. It's a sustainable cycle with potentially endless supply.Cool under pressureTo be used effectively, hydrogen must be stored under high pressure or at very low temperatures. This transforms it into a liquid, making it denser and easier to transport and use as fuel.A catalyst for clean airBy replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen in industrial processes, we can significantly reduce air pollution. This not only combats climate change but also improves air quality and public health.Global movementOver 30 countries have developed or are developing national strategies for hydrogen energy, recognising its potential to significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.
