India is fast emerging as a global leader in the hydrogen sector, with a strong emphasis on green hydrogen, according to Dave Ernsberger, Co-President of S&P Global Commodity Insights. Speaking on Thursday, he praised India’s clean energy strides, noting that the country is taking a leadership role in hydrogen development.

Ernsberger underlined the importance of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, calling it a pivotal part of the global shift towards cleaner energy and energy independence. Approved by the Union Cabinet on 4 January 2023 with an outlay of Rs 197.44 billion, the Mission aims to position India as a hub for production, use, and export of green hydrogen, targeting 5 million metric tonnes annually by 2030.

With its abundant renewable resources and industrial infrastructure, India is well placed to lead in green hydrogen. “India is in an excellent position to really lead the world in developing green hydrogen, and hydrogen in general, given that really strong asset base,” Ernsberger said.

He emphasised that collaboration between government, industry, supply chains and traders will be crucial to advancing the sector. India’s hydrogen ambitions are a cornerstone of its energy transition, aiming both to meet domestic demand and become a key exporter.

On 11 September, Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the first Annual Green Hydrogen R&D Conference in New Delhi, organised by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. He also launched a Rs 10 billion Call for Proposals to support start-ups in hydrogen innovation. The scheme will provide up to Rs 50 million per project for pilot initiatives in hydrogen production, storage, transport, and utilisation.

At the conference, 25 start-ups showcased innovations ranging from electrolyser manufacturing to AI-driven optimisation and biological hydrogen solutions, reflecting the dynamism of India’s emerging hydrogen ecosystem.