Perspective: Green Hydrogen Revolution | 28 May, 2025

Summary

The discussion focuses on India’s potential as a global leader in green hydrogen production. It highlights the importance of policy reforms, including the reduction of duties and GST, to boost the sector. Emphasis is placed on leveraging global partnerships and learning from successful international hydrogen projects. The conversation also touches on India’s goal of becoming self-sufficient in electrolyzer manufacturing, with plans for exports post-2030. The speakers stress the need for quick adoption of technologies and bold government actions to make India a top player in the green hydrogen economy, potentially transforming its energy landscape within the next 10-20 years.

Takeaways

• 😀 India aims to become a global leader in green hydrogen production, leveraging its cost-effective production capabilities to export hydrogen to the world.
• 🌍 The government should reduce tariffs (such as the 45% duty on solar modules) and remove GST on green hydrogen projects to foster industry growth and job creation.
• 💡 Green hydrogen production can significantly enhance India's energy security and reduce dependency on imports, positioning the country as a new energy exporter.
• 🔋 The government is encouraged to secure global funding (around $500 billion to $1 trillion) to accelerate green hydrogen development in India, solving both climate and energy challenges.
• 🌐 Global partnerships and knowledge transfer are critical for India to quickly scale its green hydrogen efforts, learning from international case studies and technologies.
• 🔧 The integration of renewable energy sources, water, land, and utilities is crucial in ensuring efficient green hydrogen production and deployment in India.
• ⚡ India's green hydrogen target of 5 million metric tons by 2030 is ambitious, with the potential to impact both the domestic and global energy markets significantly.
• 🛠 The Indian government should focus on strengthening its domestic electrolyzer manufacturing capabilities to reduce reliance on imports and make the production process more cost-efficient.
• 📈 There's potential for India to export electrolyzers and related technology, contributing to both the domestic green hydrogen ecosystem and global energy transitions.
• 🗣 A comprehensive policy framework, alongside continuous review and innovation, is essential for meeting green hydrogen production targets and addressing industry challenges effectively.

Q & A

What role do solar modules play in India's green hydrogen industry?

Solar modules are essential for India's green hydrogen production, as they provide the renewable energy needed for electrolysis. However, the 45% duty on solar modules is a significant barrier, and removing this duty would help reduce production costs and foster growth in the industry.

Why is it important to reconsider the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for the green hydrogen sector?

The GST is seen as a revenue share for the government, but in the context of developing a new industry like green hydrogen, it may inhibit growth. Removing or adjusting the GST could lower costs and encourage further development and investment in the sector.

What potential does India have in becoming a global exporter of green hydrogen?

India has the potential to become a leading exporter of green hydrogen, green ammonia, and other hydrogen-related products. With its abundant renewable energy resources, it can produce hydrogen at a lower cost than many other countries, positioning it as a key player in the global energy market.

How can international partnerships help accelerate India's green hydrogen economy?

Global partnerships can provide access to technology, market opportunities, and financing. Learning from countries that have already advanced in hydrogen production will allow India to quickly scale up its efforts and overcome challenges associated with the hydrogen value chain.

What are the main pillars of the hydrogen value chain according to Mr. Chi?

The main pillars of the hydrogen value chain, as identified by Mr. Chi, are technology, end applications, renewable energy integration, land and utilities, water, and policies/regulations. These elements must work in tandem to enable successful hydrogen production and distribution.

What can India learn from global hydrogen case studies?

India can learn from global case studies on hydrogen production and deployment. By adopting best practices, technology, and policies that have been successful in other countries, India can leapfrog from pilot projects to large-scale deployments, accelerating the development of its hydrogen industry.

How does India plan to achieve self-sufficiency in electrolyzer manufacturing?

India aims to become self-sufficient in electrolyzer manufacturing as part of its green hydrogen mission. By focusing on reducing reliance on imports and enhancing domestic capabilities, India can drive down costs and improve efficiency in hydrogen production.

What is the mission target for electrolyzer production in India?

The mission target for India is to achieve self-sufficiency in electrolyzer production, which is a key component in hydrogen production. There is a focus on scaling up manufacturing domestically and positioning India to export electrolyzers post-2030.

Why is it crucial for India to attract significant international investment in green hydrogen?

Attracting significant international investment will allow India to scale up its green hydrogen production, develop infrastructure, and position itself as a leading global supplier. With climate change mitigation being a priority worldwide, India has the opportunity to secure substantial investments that could solve both its energy security and economic challenges.

What steps are being taken to address the challenges in India's green hydrogen industry?

India is working on various policy initiatives and innovation to overcome challenges in its green hydrogen industry. This includes enhancing manufacturing capabilities, removing trade barriers like import duties, and fostering international collaborations. Regular reviews of progress will help refine strategies to ensure the achievement of the green hydrogen mission targets.