In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy, the Gujarat government has unveiled its ambitious plan to contribute 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030, aligning with the Prime Minister’s national target of 5 million tonnes. The announcement was made on Day 3 of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024.
Speaking at the event, VK Saraswat, Member, Niti Aayog, emphasized the critical role of hydrogen in achieving net carbon zero. He acknowledged the challenges associated with the cost of green hydrogen and electrolysers but highlighted the need to reduce electrolyser costs by 80% and improve efficiency to 76%. Saraswat stressed the importance of delivering power at not more than 2 rupees per unit to make the mission economically viable.
Saraswat also explored alternative methods for hydrogen production, including the use of nuclear reactors. He suggested that international collaboration, particularly with countries like Norway, could accelerate progress in this direction. Thermochemical and thermoelectric processes were identified as potentially viable solutions.
To achieve India’s 5 million tonne green hydrogen mission, Saraswat outlined three key requirements. Firstly, upgrading solar capacity to 211 GW solar power, secondly, identifying suitable areas for setting up photovoltaic plants spanning 141-190 thousand square hectares, and thirdly, ensuring a water supply of 160 billion litres per year.
The financial aspect of the mission was also addressed, with the current 75 billion dollars allocated to solar energy needing an increase to 243 billion dollars to augment solar capacity. While acknowledging the prevalence of blue hydrogen, Saraswat emphasized the need for a proper transition to green hydrogen for industrialization and fuel production. He called for a shift in nomenclature, advocating the term “clean hydrogen” regardless of its colour.
The launch of Gujarat’s Green Hydrogen Mission marks a significant step towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future. The state’s commitment to contributing to India’s ambitious targets reflects a broader national effort to embrace clean energy solutions and combat climate change.
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