Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have carried out an in-depth study to support the growth of green hydrogen production in India, as the country works towards its long-term climate and clean energy goals, reports Chemical Industry Digest.
India has pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and to generate half of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. In this context, green hydrogen, which is produced using renewable energy, is seen as an important solution to cut pollution in sectors such as industry, transport and buildings, where reducing emissions is more difficult. Green hydrogen can also help lower dependence on imported fuels and improve the country’s energy security.
The study was led by Professor Satyanarayanan Seshadri from IIT Madras in collaboration with the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP). The researchers examined different methods of producing green hydrogen, their environmental impact and the materials needed to scale up production in India.
The findings have been published in the international journal Energy & Fuels. The research team included Peter Waiyaki, Ramprasad Thekkethil, Murali Ananthakumar and Professor Seshadri.
Professor Seshadri said the study provides clear guidance on how green hydrogen production can be expanded in an environmentally responsible way. He said the research shows that the choice of technology has a direct impact on environmental outcomes, which is important for both policymakers and businesses planning future investments.
The study focuses on a type of hydrogen production system that is more efficient and responds faster than older methods, making it suitable for large-scale use alongside renewable power. According to Peter Waiyaki, a research scholar at IIT Madras, this approach fits well with India’s clean energy plans.
The research supports the goals of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023, which aims to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen every year by 2030. The mission also encourages making key equipment within the country, a goal that the study addresses by analysing large-scale production options and their environmental effects.
One of the key findings is that different production designs can result in very different levels of pollution over time. In some cases, systems that cause slightly higher emissions during manufacturing can still produce much cleaner hydrogen over their full lifespan. The study highlights the need to consider the full life of a system rather than only its initial impact.
The researchers also said there is a need for clear standards to describe how clean green hydrogen really is. Even when renewable energy is used, emissions can vary depending on how hydrogen is produced. To address this, the study suggests a simple ranking system to clearly show the environmental quality of hydrogen.
In addition, the study looks at the availability of important raw materials needed for hydrogen production and warns about possible supply challenges in the future. The researchers said their work lays the foundation for further studies that will help India build a strong and reliable green hydrogen sector in the years ahead.
