Scheme Overview: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has unveiled the scheme guidelines for creating hydrogen hubs under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM). These hubs will serve as centralized facilities focusing on the production, storage, and transportation of green hydrogen and its derivatives.
Key Elements of the Scheme:
- Infrastructure Development: The scheme will support the establishment of essential infrastructure at hydrogen hubs, including:
- Storage and transport facilities for green hydrogen.
- Development or enhancement of pipeline infrastructure.
- Facilities for refueling hydrogen-powered vehicles.
- Budget and Funding:
- A total budget outlay of Rs 200 crore is allocated until the financial year 2025-26.
- Funding will include Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of up to Rs 100 crore per hub, covering at least two hubs.
- The CFA distribution will be 20% upon administrative approval, 70% upon reaching milestones, and 10% after the project’s completion.
- Capacity Requirements: Each hub must have a minimum planned capacity of 100,000 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA).
Evaluation Criteria:
- Production Capacity: Accounts for 50% of the evaluation criteria, emphasizing the scale of hydrogen production.
- Technology and Application: 20% of the criteria focus on the technology used and the applications/end-uses of hydrogen.
- Financial Commitment: Makes up 30% of the evaluation, assessing the financial robustness and backing of the project.
About the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM):
- Launch: Initiated in January 2023, the NGHM aims to position India as a global leader in the green hydrogen sector by fostering production, utilization, and exportation activities.
- Budget: The mission is supported by a substantial financial backing of Rs 19,744 crore extending up to FY 2029-30.
- Administration: The Mission Secretariat, operating under the MNRE, is responsible for the strategic execution and oversight of the program.
Ministry Leadership:
- Union Minister: Raj Kumar Singh, representing Arrah, Bihar.
- Minister of State: Bhagwanth Khuba from Bidar, Karnataka.
Conclusion: The establishment of hydrogen hubs is a strategic component of India’s broader initiative to enhance its new and renewable energy infrastructure, specifically through the exploitation of green hydrogen technology. This scheme not only aims to advance India’s capabilities in hydrogen production but also supports the global shift towards sustainable and clean energy alternatives. The detailed and structured support outlined in these guidelines highlights the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and development within the renewable energy sector.