The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) aims to revolutionise India’s transport sector by introducing hydrogen as a clean fuel. Recently, the Government of India initiated five pilot projects to test hydrogen fuel cell and internal combustion engine vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable energy and reduce carbon emissions.
About the Mission
The NGHM was launched on 4th January 2023. It has an outlay of Rs. 19,744 crores until FY 2029-30. The mission focuses on making India self-reliant through clean energy solutions. It supports the development of hydrogen technologies and infrastructure.
Details of Pilot Projects
Five pilot projects have been sanctioned, featuring a total of 37 vehicles. This includes 15 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and 22 hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles. The projects will operate across ten routes in India, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
Hydrogen Refuelling Stations
Alongside the vehicles, nine hydrogen refuelling stations will be established. These stations will support the operation of hydrogen-based vehicles, ensuring a reliable supply of fuel. The infrastructure is crucial for the successful deployment of hydrogen technology.
Financial Support and Collaborations
The government has allocated approximately Rs. 208 Crore to support these projects. Major companies involved include TATA Motors Ltd, Reliance Industries Limited, and NTPC. Their participation is essential for the technical and operational success of the initiatives.
Objectives of the Pilot Projects
The pilot projects aim to demonstrate safe operations of hydrogen vehicles. They will assess the effectiveness of hydrogen as a fuel and evaluate the performance of refuelling stations. These projects will provide valuable vital information about the economic viability of hydrogen technologies.
Expected Outcomes and Future Prospects
The pilot projects are expected to be commissioned within 18-24 months. They will pave the way for scaling up hydrogen technologies in India. Successful implementation can lead to decarbonisation and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Global Impact of the Mission
The NGHM aligns with global clean energy goals. It positions India as a leader in hydrogen technology. The mission is expected to inspire other nations in their transition to sustainable energy sources.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of hydrogen in achieving India’s clean energy goals.
- Estimate the potential economic impacts of the National Green Hydrogen Mission on India’s transport sector.
- What are the challenges in implementing hydrogen refuelling infrastructure? Discuss with examples.
- Point out the significance of public-private partnerships in advancing green technologies in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of hydrogen in achieving India’s clean energy goals.
- Hydrogen is a clean fuel that produces only water as a byproduct, reducing carbon emissions.
- It can help India transition from fossil fuels, contributing to energy security and independence.
- Hydrogen technologies can enhance energy storage and grid stability, integrating renewable energy sources.
- The National Green Hydrogen Mission supports research and infrastructure for hydrogen production and usage.
- Successful hydrogen adoption can position India as a leader in the global clean energy landscape.
2. Estimate the potential economic impacts of the National Green Hydrogen Mission on India’s transport sector.
- The mission is expected to create jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of hydrogen technologies.
- It can reduce fuel costs in the long term by decreasing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
- Investment in hydrogen infrastructure may stimulate economic growth in related sectors, such as construction and energy.
- Potential for innovation and technology development can enhance competitiveness in the global market.
- Increased use of hydrogen vehicles can lead to lower health costs due to reduced air pollution.
3. What are the challenges in implementing hydrogen refuelling infrastructure? Discuss with examples.
- High initial investment costs for establishing hydrogen refuelling stations can deter private investment.
- Safety concerns regarding hydrogen storage and handling need to be addressed through stringent regulations.
- Lack of public awareness and acceptance of hydrogen technologies can hinder adoption.
- Geographical distribution of refuelling stations may create accessibility issues for users in rural areas.
- Technological challenges in hydrogen production, storage, and transport must be overcome for scalability.
4. Point out the significance of public-private partnerships in advancing green technologies in India.
- Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can leverage resources and expertise from both sectors to accelerate technology development.
- They facilitate risk-sharing, making investments in innovative projects more attractive to private companies.
- Collaboration can enhance research and development efforts, leading to faster deployment of green technologies.
- PPPs can help establish necessary infrastructure, such as hydrogen refuelling stations, through combined funding.
- These partnerships can also promote policy alignment and regulatory support for sustainable initiatives.
