New Delhi: August 21, 2023 – A significant stride has been taken in India’s journey towards the realization of the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The Indian Government has taken a pivotal step by officially introducing the Green Hydrogen Standard for the country. This defining standard, endorsed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energies (MNRE), underlines the specific emission criteria that must be met for hydrogen to be classified as ‘Green,’ meaning it is sourced from renewable origins. This crucial standard encompasses hydrogen produced through both electrolysis-based and biomass-based methods.
After extensive consultations with various stakeholders, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has opted to delineate green hydrogen as hydrogen that maintains a well-to-gate emission (which includes water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying, and hydrogen compression) that does not exceed 2 kgCO2 equivalent per kilogram of H2.
The announcement also outlines that a comprehensive methodology for measurement, reporting, monitoring, on-site verification, and certification of green hydrogen and its byproducts will be meticulously detailed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
In tandem with this development, the notification designates the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), operating under the Ministry of Energy, as the pivotal authority responsible for accrediting agencies involved in overseeing the monitoring, verification, and certification of green hydrogen production projects.
The formalization of the Green Hydrogen Standard brings a heightened level of clarity to India’s burgeoning Green Hydrogen community, a move that had been widely anticipated. With this landmark notification, India becomes one of the pioneers on the global stage, having established a comprehensive and distinct definition for green hydrogen.
This stride forward holds immense significance, showcasing India’s commitment to sustainable energy practices and innovation in the domain of renewable energy sources. The newly defined parameters set the stage for further advancements in the production and utilization of green hydrogen, contributing to the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and embracing a cleaner energy future.