Hydrogen energy is at the forefront of discussions about a sustainable, low-carbon future. With significant promise as a clean energy source, hydrogen could play a crucial role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels, especially for industries that are difficult to decarbonize, such as steel, cement, and heavy transport. India, like other major economies, is positioning itself to be a significant player in this emerging sector.
Hydrogen’s Role in the Global Energy Shift
Hydrogen fuel is a versatile energy carrier that produces zero emissions when used, making it an attractive solution for transitioning away from fossil fuels. However, the production process is energy-intensive. “Green hydrogen” is generated using renewable energy sources, making it entirely emissions-free, while “blue hydrogen” is created with natural gas but with carbon capture technologies to reduce emissions.
The EU, Japan, and the U.S. have all made strides in advancing hydrogen technology, with each focusing on different aspects of production, infrastructure, and policy support. As these global players work toward a hydrogen-powered future, India is also pushing forward with initiatives of its own, driven by an increasing energy demand and a commitment to reduce carbon emissions.
India’s Vision for Hydrogen: A Bold National Mission
[1]India’s commitment to hydrogen began with the launch of the National Hydrogen Mission in 2021. The initiative aims to position India as a global leader in green hydrogen production, with a target of producing 5 million tons of green hydrogen annually by 2030.This ambitious plan is backed by significant policy support, including exemptions from interstate transmission charges for green hydrogen, which reduces production costs and attracts investment.
India’s hydrogen goals are intertwined with its broader commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By building a robust hydrogen economy, India can decrease its dependence on fossil fuels, reduce emissions, and boost economic growth by creating jobs in the hydrogen sector. While India’s hydrogen journey is just beginning, it’s progressing rapidly, with multiple pilot projects underway across industries like steel, refineries, and mobility.
India vs. The EU, Japan, and the U.S.: A Comparative Overview
Policy and Investment Support
Global leaders see hydrogen as crucial for cleaner energy, and many have launched ambitious strategies to accelerate its adoption. [2]The EU, for example, aims to create a fully functioning hydrogen market by 2050, targeting 40 GW of electrolysis capacity by 2030 and 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen. This vision is supported by billions in investments for research, development, and infrastructure.
[3]Japan, an early adopter of hydrogen, launched a strategy in 2017 focusing on production, distribution, and fuel cells, particularly for transportation. Its strong infrastructure and fuel cell emphasis have made it a key player. [4]In the U.S., the Department of Energy’s Hydrogen Program supports research and partnerships to advance green and blue hydrogen technologies, with substantial funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
India is advancing its hydrogen goals through the National Hydrogen Mission, which outlines a clear roadmap for its hydrogen economy. Although investment is smaller compared to the EU, Japan, and the U.S., India is taking strategic steps like removing interstate transmission charges for green hydrogen to lower production costs. As these nations expand their hydrogen economies, each plays a unique role in the global shift toward sustainable energy.
Infrastructure and Technology Development
Countries around the world are investing heavily in hydrogen infrastructure as part of their clean energy transitions. The European Union and Japan have made significant strides, with the EU focusing on cross-border hydrogen pipelines and regional “hydrogen valleys” to create efficient supply chains. Japan has invested in hydrogen refuelling stations, hydrogen-powered public transport, and fuel cell technology, establishing a strong foundation for hydrogen adoption.
In the U.S., hydrogen infrastructure is progressing with a focus on localised industrial hubs, particularly in Texas, California, and the Gulf Coast. These regions are supported by pipelines to meet the needs of heavy industries and serve as models for broader expansion.
India is in the early stages of developing its hydrogen infrastructure, focusing on green hydrogen production. The country is running pilot programs and exploring global partnerships to scale up infrastructure. Leveraging its renewable energy resources, India aims to expand hydrogen infrastructure for industrial and transportation use, marking progress toward a sustainable hydrogen economy.
Applications and Market Development
Hydrogen applications are expanding globally, with countries focusing on sectors that align with their energy needs. In the EU and Japan, hydrogen is used in heavy industries, public transport, and home heating. Japan leads in hydrogen-powered vehicles, driven by its focus on fuel cell technology, while the EU has made significant strides in integrating hydrogen into manufacturing and energy production.
In the U.S., hydrogen is primarily used in industrial sectors like ammonia production, refining, and steel manufacturing as a cleaner alternative. The country is also exploring hydrogen for energy storage and electricity generation, aiming to integrate it into its clean energy infrastructure and reduce emissions in key industries.
India, still in the early stages compared to global leaders, is focusing its hydrogen efforts on industrial applications like steel, refineries, and fertilisers. It is also exploring hydrogen in mobility, particularly for heavy-duty trucks and trains, though on a smaller scale than Japan. As India develops its hydrogen economy, the focus remains on using green hydrogen to decarbonize key sectors and drive sustainable growth.
Conclusion
India’s hydrogen economy is advancing rapidly, though it still lags behind the EU, Japan, and the U.S. in terms of policy support, infrastructure, and applications. However, with ambitious targets, government support, and vast renewable resources, India has the potential to catch up and even lead in green hydrogen production. As hydrogen continues to gain traction globally, India’s efforts today will lay the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
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