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Green Hydrogen
Green Hydrogen
Context: Green hydrogen, once projected as the fuel of the future, is struggling in Europe and North America due to high costs and stalled projects. In contrast, China is rapidly expanding its capacity and infrastructure, dominating over 50% of global green hydrogen production. This shift highlights the urgent need for countries like India to accelerate their green hydrogen transition, especially to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors.
What is green hydrogen?
- Definition: Green hydrogen is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity (solar, wind, hydropower).
- Difference from other types:
- Grey hydrogen: Made from fossil fuels without carbon capture, highly polluting.
- Blue hydrogen: Produced from fossil fuels but with carbon capture and storage.
- Green hydrogen: Zero-emission, sustainable fuel source.
- Applications: Heavy industry (steel, cement), fertilisers, shipping, aviation, and long-term energy storage.
Why is it essential?
- Decarbonization of Hard-to-Abate Sectors: Electricity alone cannot decarbonise steel, cement, and fertilisers. Green hydrogen provides a clean alternative.
- Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels.
- Climate Goals: Critical for achieving Net Zero by 2070 in India and global 1.5°C targets.
- Versatility: Can be used as fuel, feedstock, and energy storage medium.
- Quick Climate Payoff: Cuts methane and CO₂ emissions, both potent greenhouse gases.
What measures have been taken to augment India’s green hydrogen production?
- National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023):
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- Target: 5 million tonnes per annum by 2030.
- Investment: ₹8 lakh crore (~$88 billion).
- Expected savings: Reduce fossil fuel imports by ₹1 lakh crore.
- Create ~600,000 clean energy jobs.
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- Cost Reduction Strategy: Aim to cut production cost from $4.5/kg to $1/kg by 2030. Focus on low-cost renewable power and domestic electrolyser manufacturing.
- Pilot Projects: First port-based green hydrogen pilot at V.O. Chidambaranar Port. Hydrogen mobility pilots across 10 routes with 37 hydrogen vehicles.
- Hydrogen Diplomacy: Partnerships with Gulf nations and Europe. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) for hydrogen exports.
- Industry Integration: Green hydrogen adoption in steel, fertilisers, mobility, and heavy transport. Support for startups in recycling, new materials, and circular economy solutions.
