India is rapidly establishing itself as a global frontrunner in the hydrogen sector, particularly with a focus on green hydrogen, according to Dave Ernsberger, Co-President of S&P Global Commodity Insights, speaking on Thursday.
Ernsberger praised India’s progress in the hydrogen space, noting the country’s growing leadership role and its emphasis on green hydrogen. “India’s efforts in advancing hydrogen capabilities, taking charge in the global hydrogen industry, and the special attention given to green hydrogen are truly commendable,” he said, underscoring India’s strides in clean energy development.
He also highlighted the National Green Hydrogen Mission, describing it as a critical element in the global shift toward cleaner energy and energy independence, particularly for nations like India. “The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a really significant part of the global transition to cleaner energy,” Ernsberger added.
Approved by the Union Cabinet on January 4, 2023, with an allocation of Rs 19,744 crore, the mission’s primary goal is to position India as a global hub for the production, use, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. By 2030, the mission aims to produce 5 million metric tons (MMT) of green hydrogen annually.
With its abundant renewable energy resources and strong industrial infrastructure, India is well-equipped to lead the global green hydrogen charge. “India is uniquely poised to take the lead in developing both green hydrogen and hydrogen in general, thanks to its solid asset base,” Ernsberger noted.
He stressed the importance of collaboration in advancing the sector, saying, “Collaboration across the private sector, public sector, government leadership, traders, and supply chains will be crucial in driving this new industry forward.”
India’s green hydrogen ambitions are central to its clean energy transition, with goals not only to meet domestic needs but also to become a significant exporter in the global hydrogen market.
On September 11, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the 1st Annual Green Hydrogen R&D Conference in New Delhi, hosted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. He also launched a new Rs 100 crore initiative to support start-ups in hydrogen innovation. The scheme will offer up to Rs 5 crore per project for pilot programs focused on innovative hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization technologies. At the conference, 25 start-ups presented their innovations, ranging from electrolyser manufacturing to AI-powered optimization and biological hydrogen solutions.
