India has set ambitious goals under its National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in 2023, as it seeks to establish itself as a global leader in clean fuel production. The programme aims to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, equivalent to capturing around 10 percent of the global market.

The government has outlined nearly US$92 billion in planned investment, with projections of creating half a million jobs and reducing fossil fuel imports by about US$11 billion each year. Alongside this, India hopes to cut 50 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, strengthening its pathway towards energy security and climate commitments.

Since the launch of the mission, early signs of progress have emerged. Contracts for 862,000 tonnes of green hydrogen production capacity have been awarded to 19 companies. In addition, 15 companies have secured rights to develop 3,000 megawatts of electrolyser manufacturing capacity. These developments reflect growing momentum across both the supply and technology sides of the green hydrogen ecosystem.

India’s push is also rooted in economic necessity. The country has long been heavily dependent on imported crude oil, which puts pressure on foreign exchange reserves and exposes the economy to fluctuations in global energy markets. Green hydrogen offers an alternative, with the potential to decarbonise sectors such as fertilisers, refining, steelmaking and transport. Crucially, unlike conventional hydrogen produced from natural gas, green hydrogen is generated through the electrolysis of water, powered by renewable electricity, making it a cleaner long-term solution.

Despite this progress, significant challenges remain. Scaling up green hydrogen to the targeted levels will require rapid expansion of renewable power capacity, consistent policy support, and technological advancements to drive down costs. Current production costs for green hydrogen remain high compared to fossil fuel-based hydrogen, and large-scale commercial deployment will depend on sustained cost reductions.

Infrastructure is another area requiring attention. Developing storage, transport, and distribution systems for green hydrogen is essential to ensure its integration into industrial and energy markets. Additionally, financing such a large-scale transition will demand strong collaboration between the government, industry, and global investors.

India’s ambitions are part of a broader international race. Several countries, including the European Union members, the United States, and Gulf nations, have rolled out their own hydrogen strategies, with significant financial commitments. For India to compete, maintaining a supportive policy environment and encouraging partnerships across borders will be crucial.

Source:

https://hydrogen-central.com/india-eyes-becoming-a-green-hydrogen-superpower-can-us92-billion-get-it-there/