In a significant move to promote green hydrogen production, India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has exempted renewable energy plants located in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and Export Oriented Units (EOU) from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) mandate. This exemption aims to streamline and expedite the deployment of renewable energy projects crucial for producing green hydrogen, a key component in India's sustainable energy strategy.

Green hydrogen, produced through renewable energy sources, is heralded as a cornerstone of the global transition to clean energy. However, stringent regulatory requirements, such as adherence to the ALMM, have posed challenges to the swift implementation of renewable energy projects. The ALMM was initially introduced to ensure quality and reliability in solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and cells used in renewable energy projects. While this list helps maintain standards, it has also slowed down the process of adopting innovative technologies and establishing new projects.

By exempting SEZ and EOU-based renewable energy plants from the ALMM, the MNRE aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and accelerate the growth of green hydrogen production. This policy shift is expected to attract more investment into the renewable energy sector, fostering the development of advanced green hydrogen technologies. Moreover, it aligns with the government?s broader goal of enhancing energy security and reducing carbon emissions.

The exemption is particularly significant as SEZs and EOUs are key players in India's industrial landscape, contributing substantially to exports and economic growth. With reduced regulatory burdens, these units can focus on scaling up green hydrogen production, thereby supporting India's ambitions of becoming a global leader in renewable energy and green technologies.

In summary, the MNRE's exemption of SEZ and EOU-based renewable plants from the ALMM mandate represents a strategic move to bolster green hydrogen production. This initiative not only simplifies the regulatory framework but also enhances India's capability to meet its renewable energy targets and environmental commitments.