Understanding the National Hydrogen Mission and Its Significance

Introduction

On the 75th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Hydrogen Mission, aiming to position India as a leader in green hydrogen production and export. The Mission was officially approved on January 4, 2022, by the Union Cabinet. This initiative is seen as a critical step toward making India self-reliant in energy, significantly reducing its dependence on energy imports, which currently exceed $160 billion annually.

Mission Components

The National Hydrogen Mission includes several key components:

• SIGHT Programme: This involves financial incentives for domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and green hydrogen production.
• Pilot Projects: The Mission will support pilot projects in sectors and production pathways that are emerging users of hydrogen.
• R&D Projects: Under the Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP), a public-private partnership will focus on developing globally competitive hydrogen technologies.
• Skill Development: Coordinated training programs will enhance skills related to hydrogen technology.

Mission Outcomes

By 2030, the Mission aims to:

• Develop a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tons per annum.
• Achieve a related renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW.
• Attract over eight lakh crore in investments.
• Create over six lakh jobs.
• Reduce fossil fuel imports by more than one lakh crore.
• Cut nearly 50 million metric tons of annual greenhouse gas emissions.

Mission Benefits

The benefits of the National Green Hydrogen Mission are substantial, including:

• Establishing India as a key global player in green hydrogen production.
• Creating significant export opportunities for green hydrogen and its derivatives.
• Reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
• Developing indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
• Fostering investment and business opportunities.
• Enhancing employment and economic development prospects.
• Supporting research and development in various hard-to-abate sectors.

Hydrogen Types Explained

Hydrogen is categorized based on its production method:

• Grey Hydrogen: Produced from fossil fuels, leading to high carbon emissions.
• Blue Hydrogen: Produced from natural gas with carbon emissions captured and stored.
• Green Hydrogen: Produced via the electrolysis of water using electricity generated from renewable sources, making it the cleanest form of hydrogen.

Green Hydrogen: The Future Fuel

Green hydrogen, expected to replace traditional fossil fuels, will be produced using renewable energy. This transition supports India’s broader energy security and environmental sustainability goals, particularly in heavy industries like steel production and sectors such as transportation and fertilizer production.

India’s Green Hydrogen Initiatives

India is poised to reduce its reliance on fossil fuel imports by adopting green hydrogen technologies. This shift will aid in achieving energy independence by 2047, aligning with global trends towards sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions.

Conclusion

The National Hydrogen Mission reflects India’s commitment to a cleaner, sustainable future and its ambition to lead in the new green economy. This strategic direction not only addresses environmental concerns but also offers substantial economic and social benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the National Hydrogen Mission?
Answer: The National Hydrogen Mission aims to position India as a leader in green hydrogen production, enhancing energy independence and reducing fossil fuel imports by 2030.

Q2. What are the key components of the National Hydrogen Mission?
Answer: Key components include the SIGHT Programme, pilot projects, R&D initiatives, and skill development programs to enhance hydrogen technology proficiency.

Q3. What are the expected outcomes of the National Hydrogen Mission by 2030?
Answer: The Mission aims to produce 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen, add 125 GW of renewable energy capacity, and create over six lakh jobs.

Q4. How does green hydrogen benefit the environment?
Answer: Green hydrogen reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel reliance, supporting cleaner energy production and sustainable industrial practices.

Q5. Why is India focusing on green hydrogen technologies?
Answer: India aims to enhance energy security, reduce fossil fuel imports, and position itself as a global leader in sustainable energy through green hydrogen technologies.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main goal of the National Hydrogen Mission?
A) To increase fossil fuel imports
B) To position India as a leader in green hydrogen production
C) To reduce renewable energy capacity
D) To eliminate energy independence strategies
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which program under the National Hydrogen Mission supports domestic manufacturing of electrolysers?
A) SHIP
B) SIGHT Programme
C) Pilot Projects
D) Skill Development
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: By 2030, how much renewable energy capacity does the Mission aim to achieve?
A) 100 GW
B) 125 GW
C) 150 GW