The Union Cabinet approved earlier this year the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an outlay of Rs 19,744 crore with an aim to make India a global hub for manufacturing this clean source of energy
Union Minister R. K. Singh highlighted the potential of the National Green Hydrogen Mission to significantly reduce India's fossil fuel imports, valued at Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030, through the installation of 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of capacity. The Union Cabinet approved the mission in January 2023, allocating Rs 19,744 crore to establish India as a global hub for manufacturing green hydrogen.
Singh, Minister for New and Renewable Energy, informed the Rajya Sabha that green hydrogen, with its capacity to replace fossil fuels like natural gas, has the potential to diminish dependence on imported fossil fuels. The mission aims to substitute grey hydrogen with green hydrogen in various industries, including fertiliser production, petroleum refining, steel, and shipping, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.
"The quantum of such a reduction in imports is estimated at Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030," Singh stated, underscoring the significant economic impact of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Singh also highlighted the water requirement for green hydrogen production through electrolysis, indicating that around 10 litres of demineralized water are needed for every kilogramme of green hydrogen. For the targeted 5 MMT of green hydrogen production annually, this translates to a requirement of about 50 million cubic metres (MCM) of demineralised water.
Singh acknowledged the likelihood of green hydrogen production plants being situated near port locations, with desalinized sea water being a potential water source. However, he noted that adherence to state regulations regarding water supply is crucial, given that water is a state subject.
In essence, the National Green Hydrogen Mission emerges as a strategic initiative with far-reaching economic and environmental implications, positioning India as a key player in the global shift towards cleaner energy alternatives.