Understanding the National Green Hydrogen Mission

What is the National Green Hydrogen Mission?

The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to establish India as a global hub for the production, usage, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. This initiative is expected to lead to substantial decarbonisation of the economy, a decrease in reliance on fossil fuel imports, and allow India to achieve leadership in both technology and market for green hydrogen.

Objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission

The mission encompasses several key objectives:

• Positioning India as a leading producer and supplier of green hydrogen globally.
• Creating export opportunities for green hydrogen and its derivatives.
• Reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and feedstock.
• Developing indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
• Attracting investments and business opportunities in the sector.
• Generating employment and fostering economic development.
• Supporting research and development projects.

Projected Outcomes by 2030

By 2030, the mission is expected to yield significant outcomes, including:

• Development of green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum.
• Associated renewable energy capacity addition of approximately 125 GW.
• Over Rs. Eight lakh crore in total investments.
• Creation of over six lakh jobs.
• Cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports exceeding Rs. One lakh crore.
• Abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions.

Types of Hydrogen Based on Extraction Methods

Hydrogen can be classified into three main categories based on the extraction method:

• Grey Hydrogen: Produced via coal or lignite gasification or steam methane reforming (SMR) of natural gas.
• Blue Hydrogen: Generated from natural gas or coal gasification, paired with carbon capture storage (CCS) or carbon capture use (CCU) technologies to mitigate carbon emissions.
• Green Hydrogen: Produced using the electrolysis of water powered by electricity from renewable energy sources.

Regulatory Framework for Green Hydrogen Production in India

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, has set forth emission thresholds that must be achieved for hydrogen to qualify as 'Green', ensuring it is sourced from renewable resources.

Challenges in Green Hydrogen Production

To successfully meet critical energy and climate goals, India must accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen. Key challenges include:

• Increasing renewable energy utilization across all sectors.
• Utilizing hydrogen for long-duration storage of renewable energy.
• Replacing fossil fuels in industries.
• Establishing clean transportation solutions.
• Exploring hydrogen use for decentralized power generation, aviation, and marine transport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of the National Green Hydrogen Mission?
Answer: The mission is crucial for making India a leader in green hydrogen, driving economic growth, reducing fossil fuel dependency, and addressing climate change through sustainable energy solutions.

Q2. How does green hydrogen impact greenhouse gas emissions?
Answer: Green hydrogen significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by providing a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, potentially abating nearly 50 MMT of emissions annually by 2030.

Q3. What are the investment projections for the mission?
Answer: The mission anticipates over Rs. Eight lakh crore in total investments, fostering economic development and job creation in the green hydrogen sector.

Q4. What types of hydrogen are produced in India?
Answer: India produces grey, blue, and green hydrogen, with green hydrogen being the most environmentally friendly, made from renewable energy sources through electrolysis.

Q5. What challenges does India face in adopting green hydrogen?
Answer: India faces challenges such as enhancing renewable energy use, utilizing hydrogen storage, transitioning industries away from fossil fuels, and developing clean transportation solutions.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the National Green Hydrogen Mission?
A) To reduce fossil fuel imports
B) To establish India as a global leader in green hydrogen
C) To create more coal energy
D) To promote electric vehicles
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: By what year does the National Green Hydrogen Mission aim to achieve significant outcomes?
A) 2025
B) 2030
C) 2040
D) 2023
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the expected green hydrogen production capacity by 2030?
A) 3 MMT
B) 5 MMT
C) 10 MMT
D) 12 MMT
Correct Answer: B