Why is it in the news?
- The World Economic Forum (WEF) has issued a comprehensive report titled ‘Green Hydrogen: Enabling Measures Roadmap for Adoption in India.’
About Green Hydrogen · Green Hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources such as electrolysis or the conversion of biomasses. · India’s current hydrogen production stands at 6.5 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA). This hydrogen is primarily utilized in crude-oil refineries and fertilizer production. Need for Adoption of Green Hydrogen: · The adoption of Green Hydrogen is imperative to decarbonize critical sectors like transportation, shipping, and steel, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. · Additionally, with an estimated 35% growth in energy demand by 2030, there is a pressing need for sustainable energy solutions. Concerns with Green Hydrogen: · The cost of producing green hydrogen is currently around $4-5 per kilogram, posing economic challenges. · Irregular availability of renewable energy and a lack of economical battery storage infrastructure create obstacles. · Trade barriers with countries like Europe, Korea, and Japan, which are expected to emerge as crucial markets for green hydrogen, present additional challenges. |
Key Goals to Accelerate Green Hydrogen Ecosystem in India
On the Supply Side:
- Reduce the cost of producing green hydrogen to less than $2 per kilogram.
- Eliminate costs associated with green hydrogen conversion, storage, and transportation.
On the Demand Side:
- Capitalize on India’s export potential for green hydrogen derivatives by developing conversion and storage facilities at ports.
- Introduce penalties on the use of carbon-intensive alternatives such as natural gas to incentivize the adoption of green hydrogen.
National Green Hydrogen Mission · The National Green Hydrogen Mission is designed to position India as a Global Hub for producing, utilizing, and exporting Green Hydrogen. · It comprises two sub-missions: 1) Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT): Focused on strategic measures to facilitate the transition to green hydrogen. 2) Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP): Aimed at fostering innovation in the hydrogen sector through strategic partnerships. |