Centres of Excellence for Research and Development of National Green Hydrogen Mission

Syllabus: GS3/Environmental Pollution & Degradation

Context

  • Recently, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has invited proposals for setting up ‘Centres of Excellence (CoE) under Research and Development (R&D) Scheme’ of National Green Hydrogen Mission.

About the Centres of Excellence for Research and Development on Green Hydrogen

  • It is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched to propel India towards a low-carbon economy and enhance energy independence.
  • The primary objective is to create world-class ‘Centres of Excellence’ that will serve as hubs for cutting-edge research, skill development, and knowledge dissemination in the field of Green Hydrogen.
  • These centres aim to advance technologies related to the production, storage, and utilisation of Green Hydrogen, thereby accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Green Hydrogen
– It is generated through the electrolysis of water, a process powered by renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydropower. 
– It ensures that the hydrogen produced is free from carbon emissions, distinguishing it from grey hydrogen (produced from natural gas) and blue hydrogen (produced from natural gas with carbon capture and storage).

Key Features of the Initiative

  • Integrated Research: The CoEs will facilitate integrated research covering multiple areas within the Green Hydrogen value chain.
    • It includes innovations in production methods, storage solutions, and utilisation technologies.
  • Collaboration and Partnerships: The initiative encourages collaboration among various stakeholders, including industry, academia, and government bodies.
    • Public and private entities, research institutions, and universities are expected to form partnerships to submit proposals.
  • Funding and Support: The government has allocated Rs 100 crores for setting up these centres under the Green Hydrogen Mission.
    • It aims to support the establishment and operationalization of the CoEs, ensuring they have the necessary resources to drive significant advancements in Green Hydrogen technologies.
  • Long-term Goals: The National Green Hydrogen Mission, with an outlay of Rs 19,744 crores up to FY 2029-30, aims to contribute to India’s goal of becoming Aatma Nirbhar (self-reliant) through clean energy.
    • The mission is expected to lead to substantial decarbonization of the economy, reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports, and position India as a leader in Green Hydrogen technology and market.

Expected Outcomes

  • Enhance Innovation: By fostering a collaborative environment, the CoEs will drive innovations that improve process efficiencies and lead to the development of new products.
  • Promote Sustainability: Advancements in Green Hydrogen technologies will contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emissions, supporting global efforts to combat climate change.
  • Boost Economic Growth: The initiative will create new opportunities for research and development, leading to job creation and economic growth in the clean energy sector.

Conclusion

  • The Government of India’s call for proposals to set up Centres of Excellence for Green Hydrogen R&D marks a pivotal step towards a sustainable and energy-independent future. 
  • By leveraging the expertise and resources of various stakeholders, these centres will play a crucial role in advancing Green Hydrogen technologies and positioning India as a global leader in clean energy innovation.

Source: PIB