INDIA'S FIRST GREEN HYDROGEN PLANT (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env & Eco)

Context: The Union Steel Minister recently virtually inaugurated India's first Green Hydrogen Plant in the Stainless Steel Sector at Jindal Stainless Limited, Hisar.

Country's First Green Hydrogen Plant

• About: The establishment of the first Green Hydrogen Plant marks a significant milestone for the nation's sustainable energy initiatives.
• Pioneering Off-Grid Technology: This plant will be a trailblazer as the world's first off-grid Green Hydrogen facility tailored specifically for the stainless steel sector, showcasing advancements in sustainable industrial practices.
• Unprecedented Integration of Rooftop: Distinguished as the world's first Green Hydrogen plant to integrate both rooftop and floating solar technologies, emphasizing a multi-faceted approach to renewable energy generation.
• Substantial Reduction in Carbon Emissions: The project's environmental impact is substantial, contributing to an annual reduction of approximately 2,700 Metric Tonnes of carbon emissions and a noteworthy 54,000 tons over the next two decades.
• A Model for Future Green Hydrogen Initiatives: This pioneering project sets a precedent for future endeavors, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of green hydrogen production in reducing carbon footprints across industries.

National Green Hydrogen Mission

• Approved in: January 4, 2023.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
• Objective: To make India the Global Hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.

oTo make India a leader in technology and manufacturing of electrolysers and other enabling technologies for Green Hydrogen.

• It contributes: To India’s aim to become Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) through clean energy and serve as an inspiration for the global Clean Energy Transition.