A transformative ambition positioning the nation as a global leader in clean energy, revolutionizing key industries and driving Net Zero Emissions India.
India’s Green Hydrogen Strategy & Economic Impact
India’s aggressive pursuit of USD 1/kg green hydrogen by 2030 represents the nation’s most significant economic opportunity since 1991. Driven by the ambitious National Green Hydrogen Mission, expanding renewable energy, and declining tariffs, this initiative aims for profound transformations.
Economic Growth
Stimulate significant Economic Growth India, marking a new era of prosperity.
Green Jobs
Projected to create 48 million green jobs across various sectors.
Investments
Attract USD 4 trillion in investments, fueling the green transition.
Global Market
Unlock a USD 1.4 trillion global green market by 2047.
Energy Independence
Enhance energy independence by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Decarbonization
Accelerate decarbonization efforts across all major industries.
National Green Hydrogen Mission: India’s Blueprint
Launched in January 2023 with a substantial outlay, the National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production and export, aligning with India’s Green Mission objectives.
Key Objectives by 2030:
- At least 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) annual production capacity.
- ~125 GW associated renewable energy capacity.
- Over ₹8 lakh crore (~$100 billion) in investments.
- Over 600,000 jobs created.
- Cumulative fossil fuel import savings exceeding ₹1 lakh crore.
- Abating nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
- Achieving energy independence by 2047 and Net Zero Emissions India by 2070.
Strategic Interventions:
- Financial incentives via SIGHT Programme.
- Demand creation through export opportunities.
- Infrastructure development for supply chains & Green Hydrogen Hubs.
- Robust R&D with Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP).
- Policy support like waiving interstate transmission charges for renewable energy.
Progress includes allocating production capacity to 19 companies, initiating pilot projects, and developing ports like Kandla and Paradip as green hydrogen hubs. 15 states have already implemented supporting policies.
Sectoral Transformation Driven by Green Hydrogen
Steel Sector
Green hydrogen replaces coking coal, significantly reducing emissions in iron reduction. Projected 15 MMTPA demand by FY2070, with 100% green hydrogen steelmaking by 2040. Enhances energy independence.
Fertilizer Sector
Shift to green ammonia eliminates emissions from natural gas reformation, reducing subsidy burdens and boosting self-reliance. Hydrogen demand expected to reach 7.5 MMT by 2050.
Mobility & Heavy Transport
Green hydrogen powers Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), offering rapid refueling for long-distance and heavy-duty transport. Plans for hydrogen-powered Vande Bharat trains by 2026 and maritime bunkering hubs. Addresses fossil fuel dependence.
Sustainable Urbanization & Circular Economy India
Amitabh Kant champions sustainable cities built on a “people-first” approach and a circular economy India model. The Smart Cities Mission India is a cornerstone for this vision, focusing on high quality of life through smart solutions and “blue-green infrastructure.”
Key Aspects of Circular Cities:
- Maximizing resource potential and designing out waste.
- Conserving, reusing, and recycling resources effectively.
- Smart technologies for energy, water, and waste management.
- Promoting green buildings and efficient public transportation.
India’s National Urban Transport Policy promotes “people-centric urban mobility” through Mass Rapid Transit Systems (MRTS), Non-Motorized Transport (NMT), and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), supporting broader Climate Action goals.
Diversifying India’s Green Portfolio
EV Recycling & Mineral Independence
To combat reliance on imported lithium and cobalt, India aims to meet 80% of its needs through EV Recycling by 2030. Innovations include hydrometallurgy and AI for safer disassembly, promoting Lithium and Cobalt Recycling.
The Battery Waste Management Rules 2022 and incentive schemes are accelerating producer accountability.
Biofuel Innovations & Crude Oil Savings
As a major crude oil importer, India leverages Biofuels India to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Aims for 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025, saving ₹30,000 crore annually. Policies support bioethanol, biodiesel, and Bio-CNG.
The National Policy on Biofuels (2018) and Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana drive this initiative.
Fertilizer Self-Reliance
Beyond green hydrogen, India is boosting domestic production and promoting sustainable farming practices to achieve fertilizer self-reliance.
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