India is emerging as a significant player in the global hydrogen sector, with a particular focus on green hydrogen, Dave Ernsberger, Co-President of S&P Global Commodity Insights, said on Thursday, as reported by ANI.
“India’s journey in developing hydrogen capabilities, taking a leadership role in the global hydrogen industry, and a special emphasis here in India on green hydrogen as well, is truly impressive,” Ernsberger said, noting India’s progress in clean energy.
National Green Hydrogen Mission
Ernsberger highlighted the role of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, describing it as “a really important part of the global journey towards cleaner energy, energy independence for countries like India and more beyond.”The Union Cabinet approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission on 4 January 2023, with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore. The mission aims to make India a global hub for the production, usage, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives, targeting production of 5 million metric tonnes per annum by 2030.
Collaboration and industry development
Ernsberger said India’s abundant renewable energy resources and industrial infrastructure place the country in a strong position to develop hydrogen capabilities. “India is in an excellent position to really lead the world in developing green hydrogen, and hydrogen in general, given that really strong asset base,” he said.He emphasised that collaboration between the private sector, public sector, government, traders and supply chains will be critical to advancing the sector.
India’s green hydrogen ambitions form part of its broader clean energy transition, aiming to meet domestic demand and emerge as a key exporter in the future.
On 11 September, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the first Annual Green Hydrogen R&D Conference in New Delhi and launched a ₹100 crore call for proposals to support start-ups in hydrogen innovation.
The scheme provides up to ₹5 crore per project for pilot projects in hydrogen production, storage, transport, and utilisation technologies.
At the conference, 25 start-ups showcased innovations ranging from electrolyser manufacturing to AI-driven optimisation and biological hydrogen solutions.