India has unveiled a landmark Rs 19,200 crore National Hydrogen Mission aiming to position the country as a leader in green hydrogen production and utilization. Announced recently by NITI Aayog Chairman V.K. Saraswat, this ambitious initiative seeks to accelerate India’s clean energy transition, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and create a robust hydrogen economy with global export potential.
Key Mission Highlights
-
The government’s Rs 19,200 crore outlay supports production, storage, and commercial use of green hydrogen, generated via electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources.
-
The mission envisions India becoming a global hub covering the entire hydrogen value chain—from electrolyzer manufacturing and green hydrogen plants to fuel cells and end-use applications.
-
Three “Hydrogen Valley” projects, with phased capacities of 50 MW, 100 MW, and 500 MW, will serve as demonstration zones showcasing production, storage, and usage ecosystems.
-
Financial incentives and subsidies are available for domestic electrolyzer manufacturing units and green hydrogen projects to foster industrial participation.
-
Emphasis includes hydrogen adoption in multiple sectors such as industry, transport, and power generation to aid decarbonization and energy security.
-
Development of hydrogen-powered vehicles and fuel cell technology is promoted with manufacturer subsidies to complement electric mobility.
-
Research advances in high-pressure hydrogen storage systems (cylinders at 350 bar and 700 bar) are underway to enable safe scaling.
Transformative Goals and Impact
The mission targets to produce at least 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030, supported by the addition of approximately 125 GW of renewable energy capacity. Expected outcomes include:
-
Attracting over Rs 8 lakh crore in investments.
-
Generating more than 6 lakh employment opportunities in the clean energy ecosystem.
-
Cutting fossil fuel imports by over Rs 1 lakh crore.
-
Reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50 MMT.
-
The government’s proactive approach is designed to build self-reliance in green fuels, drive innovation, and accelerate India’s progress toward net-zero emissions goals.
Strategic Initiatives Driving the Mission
Manufacturing Capacity: Over 3,000 MW of electrolyzer capacity has been awarded to 15 companies, fostering domestic industrial capabilities.
Hydrogen Hubs and Policies: At least five states have implemented dedicated green hydrogen policies, with 15 states in various stages of policy adoption, enabling infrastructure, land allocation, and water sourcing.
Research & Development: More than 23 R&D projects have been sanctioned, with over 100 under evaluation, supported by government funding to innovate in hydrogen technologies.
Commercial Deployment: Indian Oil and other entities are piloting hydrogen fuel cell buses with supportive refueling infrastructure.
International Vision: The mission not only aims at domestic production but also at establishing India as a reliable exporter of green hydrogen amid rising global demand.
Conclusion
India’s Rs 19,200 crore National Hydrogen Mission stands as a transformative push toward a sustainable hydrogen economy, advancing energy security, climate goals, and economic growth. By integrating renewable energy with cutting-edge technologies and fostering an enabling policy environment, India is poised to emerge as a worldwide hub for green hydrogen production and innovation.
Source: United News of India
