May 10, 2023

India's energy transition: embracing green hydrogen

topic:	Renewables
located:	India
editor:	Rishabh Jain

Green hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer in the global energy landscape for its potential to decarbonise multiple sectors, including transportation and industrial processes. Recognising its significance, India has set its sights on establishing green hydrogen plants at all of its oil refineries as part of its comprehensive strategy to achieve net zero emissions.

Green energy is produced by using renewable energy to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Green hydrogen presents numerous advantages that make it an attractive solution for India's clean energy transition.

Apart from offering a clean and efficient alternative to conventional fossil fuels, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly, the scalability and versatility of green hydrogen make it suitable for various sectors, such as transportation, power generation and industrial applications. Its storage and transportability capabilities enable easy integration into existing infrastructure. Moreover, the production of green hydrogen can create new employment opportunities and foster economic growth.

In a bid to lower its carbon intensity and decrease its reliance on fossil fuels, India has recently announced a 197 billion rupee ($2.4 billion) green hydrogen programme. India is currently one of the biggest greenhouse gas emitters in the world but plans to achieve a target of producing at least 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. Oil refineries will be obligated to use green hydrogen to energize their operations instead of using 'grey hydrogen' made with fossil fuels.

Companies like Reliance Industries, Tata Power, JSW Group, Acme Solar are helping India in achieving this feat. Recently, India’s top oil firm, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), also announced that it will be investing a total of 2 lakh crore rupees ($30.76 billion) to set up green hydrogen plants across all of its refineries in order to achieve the target of zero emissions by 2046.

India's ambitious commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2070 aligns with the global goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. The establishment of green hydrogen plants at oil refineries will not only minimise carbon emissions but also ensure the country's energy security, resilience, and independence in the long run.

However, India should not overlook the complications associated with green hydrogen, notably the significant amounts of energy and water that are required to produce it, especially as droughts are affecting the region. The addition of another water-intensive activity could cause increased competition for the scarce resource. 

If managed correctly, India's focus on setting up green hydrogen plants at all of its oil refineries could mark a significant step towards achieving its net zero emissions target. By embracing this clean and versatile energy source, India is poised to reduce its carbon footprint, drive economic growth and foster a sustainable future for generations to come.

Image by Waldemar

Call to Action

An unusual way to tackle India's plastic crisis

Support now