National Green Hydrogen Mission

The National Green Hydrogen Mission was approved by the Union Cabinet on January 4, 2023. It aims to position India as a global hub for the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives.

Key Objectives of the Mission

• Global Hub for Green Hydrogen:
  To make India a major player in the green hydrogen sector, not just for domestic use, but also for exporting green hydrogen and its by-products to other countries.

• Decarbonizing Sectors:
  The mission also aims to decarbonize various industries, especially the energy sector, through sustainable energy solutions like green hydrogen.

Components of the National Green Hydrogen Mission

1. Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT):

   • SIGHT focuses on two major areas:

     • Domestic Manufacturing of Electrolysers: To encourage local production of electrolysers, which are key components for generating hydrogen from renewable sources.

     • Production of Green Hydrogen: Supporting the domestic production of green hydrogen from renewable energy sources (wind, solar, etc.), in line with India’s net-zero goals.

2. Pilot Projects:

   • Pilot Projects in Emerging End-Use Sectors: The mission will fund pilot projects in emerging sectors where hydrogen can be a game-changer, such as steel, fertilizers, transportation, and industrial processes.

3. Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs:

   • Green Hydrogen Hubs will be identified and developed in regions capable of supporting large-scale hydrogen production or utilization. These hubs will foster growth, innovation, and trade in hydrogen production.

4. Public-Private Partnership Framework:

   • The Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP) will be created to encourage collaborative research and development (R&D) between public and private sectors. This framework will help develop technologies and innovations to advance the hydrogen ecosystem.

5. Skill Development Program:

   • A coordinated skill development programme will be launched to train professionals and workers in the hydrogen sector, ensuring there is an adequately skilled workforce to support the growing industry.

6. Funding for Testing Facilities:

   • The mission will also provide funding for testing facilities to ensure quality, performance, and safety in the production and trade of green hydrogen.

Financial Outlay & Implementation

• The total budgetary outlay for the National Green Hydrogen Mission is Rs. 200 Crores till the financial year 2025-26.

• The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) has been designated as the Scheme Implementation Agency (SIA) to oversee and execute the mission’s objectives.

Benefits

• Energy Security: Green hydrogen can contribute to energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and ensuring a clean energy future.

• Sustainable Growth: The mission supports sustainable growth by promoting the use of renewable energy for hydrogen production, leading to lower carbon emissions.

• Export Potential: By creating green hydrogen hubs and focusing on exports, India can tap into the growing global hydrogen market, positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen trade.

• Job Creation: The mission is expected to create jobs across various sectors, including R&D, manufacturing, training, and infrastructure development.