R K Singh commits additional funds for green hydrogen in steel sector

Union Minister R K Singh provided reassurance to stakeholders, stating that additional funding would be allocated for the decarbonisation of the steel sector under the National Green Hydrogen Mission if necessary. Chairing a meeting that included government and industry representatives from the iron and steel sector, Singh discussed pilot projects under the mission. Participants included officials from the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Ministry of Steel, and industry representatives. Singh, who serves as the Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister, emphasised the utilisation of mission funds to advance technology for integrating hydrogen into steel production. He highlighted that some manufacturers have already initiated experiments with green hydrogen in the steel sector. The purpose of the meeting was to determine the avenues for channelling funds to expedite this transition through a transparent selection process, addressing technology gaps. Assuring stakeholders, Singh mentioned the possibility of allocating additional funds beyond the Rs 4.55 million already earmarked for the steel sector under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. During the discussions, industry representatives expressed concerns about challenges faced during trials, and the prospect of executing projects through a consortium was also explored. Singh urged concerted efforts to identify the right technology and pathways for decarbonising the steel sector, emphasising the government's commitment to energy transition. He highlighted the significance of using green hydrogen in steel production to reduce carbon content. Singh underscored the importance of energy transition for the competitiveness of the sector, especially in light of trade barriers imposed by developed countries.