Hydrocarbon emissions pose a significant global concern, exacerbating climate change and environmental degradation. India, as a responsible global citizen, is dedicated to mitigating its hydrocarbon emissions. Central to this commitment is the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to revolutionize India’s energy landscape. ES Ranganathan, a seasoned expert in the Oil and Energy industry, sheds light on the promising future of green hydrogen.
Hydrogen energy entails utilizing hydrogen as a sustainable and clean energy source. It can be generated through diverse methods such as electrolysis of water, biomass gasification, and natural gas reforming. Hydrogen serves as a versatile energy carrier applicable across various sectors including transportation, power generation, and industrial processes. Importantly, its utilization results in only water as a byproduct, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to hydrocarbon-based fuels.
Launched by the Government of India in 2022, the National Green Hydrogen Mission signifies a pivotal initiative towards achieving cleaner energy goals. “It’s a commendable initiative,” remarks ES Ranganathan, emphasizing the mission’s objective to establish a comprehensive ecosystem for green hydrogen production, storage, and utilization across diverse sectors including mobility, industry, and power generation.
The mission encompasses several key objectives aimed at catalyzing hydrogen energy adoption nationwide. Firstly, it seeks to establish a robust national hydrogen energy mission, underscoring the necessity for a holistic approach in harnessing hydrogen’s potential. Secondly, there’s a focus on fostering research and development (R&D) to drive innovation in hydrogen production, storage, and utilization technologies.
Furthermore, the mission aims to bolster domestic manufacturing of hydrogen-related infrastructure, aligning with the broader vision of promoting indigenous manufacturing and reducing import dependency. International collaborations are also prioritized to leverage global expertise and accelerate technological advancements in hydrogen solutions.
India has set ambitious targets for green hydrogen adoption, aiming to produce one kilogram of green hydrogen at a cost of approximately $1 by 2030. The country targets a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tonnes per annum, a significant stride towards reducing its carbon footprint.
ES Ranganathan expresses optimism about India’s progress in green hydrogen endeavors, citing the establishment of pilot projects and demonstration plants utilizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power for electrolysis and hydrogen production. The government’s initiatives in research and development further underscore the commitment to advancing hydrogen technologies.
“The National Green Hydrogen Mission has gained momentum,” shares ES Ranganathan, highlighting active participation from industry stakeholders, research institutions, and international collaborators. The mission holds immense potential in contributing to India’s sustainable development goals while diminishing reliance on fossil fuels.
India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission represents a crucial stride towards curbing hydrocarbon emissions. With ambitious targets and concerted efforts, India is poised to harness the potential of green hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source, setting an exemplary precedent for global climate action.