At the COP 26 climate summit in Glasgow, India announced its ambitious target of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070. This goal means that the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced in India will be equivalent to the amount offset from the atmosphere. Central to this strategy is a sustained effort towards energy transition, with green hydrogen positioned as a key enabler.
Green Hydrogen: A Path to Decarbonization
Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources like solar and wind, is more than just an industrial solution; it offers the potential to transform entire sectors. It plays a crucial role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries such as steel, cement, and chemicals, which have traditionally been reliant on fossil fuels. Given India’s vast renewable energy potential, the country is well-positioned to achieve energy independence and a sustainable future through green hydrogen.
Typically recognized as a clean energy source, green hydrogen is produced by using renewable electricity to split demineralized water into hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike conventional hydrogen, which is derived from fossil fuels and emits carbon dioxide, green hydrogen is entirely emissions-free, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. This technology could reduce carbon dioxide emissions in hard-to-abate sectors by approximately 90%.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), green hydrogen could meet 10–14% of global energy demand and offset up to 12% of global emissions by 2050—a crucial step towards limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
Economic Implications
The transition to green hydrogen is not only environmentally beneficial but also presents significant economic opportunities. Industrial operations currently account for nearly 24% of global CO2 emissions, necessitating urgent action. To meet this challenge, the world will require over 5,700 GW of electrolyzer capacity by 2050, an ambitious yet achievable target. Developing the hydrogen ecosystem will stimulate local economies and promote extensive skilling programs.
Government Initiatives in India
India is already laying the groundwork for a hydrogen-powered future through its National Hydrogen Mission, aimed at positioning the country as a global leader in green hydrogen production, usage, and export. This mission promotes a comprehensive ecosystem for green hydrogen adoption by providing incentives for production and manufacturing electrolyzers, facilitating market entry and technology scaling.
Furthermore, the Indian government is removing barriers such as interstate transmission charges and offering subsidies for domestic electrolyzer manufacturing. These reforms aim to lower costs, create jobs, and foster innovation in the sector. The mission has set a target of producing 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen annually by 2030, leveraging the country’s abundant renewable resources.
Global and Local Impact
Reports indicate that 46% of announced hydrogen production projects are currently in the implementation phase globally. Although India is still in the early stages, it is aggressively pursuing green hydrogen development through strategic funding and pilot initiatives. Insights gained from these projects will drive adoption and place India at the forefront of global clean technology leadership.
Economic Benefits and Job Creation
In addition to its environmental advantages, green hydrogen is expected to yield significant economic benefits. The industry could generate around 20,000 jobs across production, storage, and utilization for every billion dollars invested in green hydrogen, positioning India as a key player in the global clean energy market.
As India advances its green hydrogen mission, there will be ample opportunities for workforce development, including upskilling and reskilling initiatives. Investments in education and training will empower individuals in the energy sector to transition into clean energy jobs, securing their futures in a growing green economy.
Conclusion
Green hydrogen is at the heart of India’s strategy to achieve its ambitious climate goals. Proactive measures today will enable this energy source to revolutionize India’s energy landscape, fostering sustainability, economic growth, and global leadership in clean energy technologies.
Sources
- International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) – Green Hydrogen Overview
- Government of India – National Hydrogen Mission
- COP26 – Climate Summit Outcomes
