Green hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer in the global shift towards clean energy. As nations race to decarbonise industries and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, green hydrogen offers a promising route to energy security, sustainability and economic growth. With India positioning itself as a frontrunner, the country is poised to become a global hub for production, utilisation and export.
What is green hydrogen?
Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, but it does not exist in pure form on Earth. It is produced by several methods, commonly described by colour:
- Grey hydrogen — extracted from natural gas, emitting CO₂.
- Blue hydrogen — as grey, but with carbon capture to reduce emissions.
- Green hydrogen — produced by electrolysis powered by renewable energy, with zero carbon emissions.
How does it work?
Electrolysis splits water (H₂O) into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) using electricity from renewable sources such as solar and wind. The stored hydrogen can then be used in fuel cells to generate electricity, with water as the only by-product — a zero-emission energy source for hard-to-decarbonise sectors.
Why it is a game-changer
- Zero carbon emissions — a vital tool against climate change.
- Energy security — reduced dependence on fossil-fuel imports.
- Clean mobility — from fuel-cell vehicles to hydrogen buses, trains and aircraft.
- Economic growth — new investment and jobs worldwide.
India's National Green Hydrogen Mission
With an outlay of over ₹19,744 crore, the mission aims to develop 5 million tonnes of annual green hydrogen production by 2030, cut carbon emissions by around 50 million tonnes a year, create more than 6 lakh jobs and attract ₹8 lakh crore of investment.
Companies including Reliance Industries, Adani Enterprises, GAIL, Oil India Limited and Petrochem Designs and Engineering Solutions India are contributing to green hydrogen projects.