Hydrogen Fuel: Types, Environmental Impact and India’s Green Mission

Hydrogen fuel comes in different forms, each with varying environmental impacts and production methods. Grey hydrogen, produced from fossil fuels, is the most common but has drawbacks due to its carbon emissions. Blue hydrogen, with carbon capture technology, and green hydrogen, made through electrolysis with renewable energy, offer cleaner alternatives.

An Overview Of Hydrogen Fuel

Understanding the Types and Environmental Impact of Hydrogen Fuel

• Hydrogen Fuel: It is a versatile and clean form of energy that has the potential to play a crucial role in a sustainable and low-carbon energy future. 
• Types of Hydrogen Fuel: It can be classified into different types based on its production methods and sources. The three main types are:

Grey Hydrogen

• Production Method: Grey hydrogen is produced through a process called steam methane reforming (SMR) or other methods that use fossil fuels, such as natural gas.
• Environmental Impact: This method releases carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct, making grey hydrogen less environmentally friendly compared to other types.
• Usage: Grey hydrogen has been historically the most common type of hydrogen produced, but its environmental impact has led to increased interest in cleaner alternatives.

Blue Hydrogen

• Production Method: Blue hydrogen is also produced through steam methane reforming (SMR) or other methods using fossil fuels, but the carbon emissions are captured and stored using carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
• Environmental Impact: While it still relies on fossil fuels, the integration of CCS reduces the carbon footprint, making blue hydrogen a cleaner option compared to grey hydrogen.
• Usage: Blue hydrogen is considered a transitional option on the path to a fully renewable hydrogen economy.

Green Hydrogen

• Production Method: Green hydrogen is produced through the process of electrolysis, using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydropower to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
• Environmental Impact: Green hydrogen is considered the most environmentally friendly option since it is produced without emitting carbon dioxide, making it a key component in efforts to achieve a carbon-neutral or low-carbon future.[UPSC 2023]
• Usage: Green hydrogen is seen as a sustainable and long-term solution for various applications, including transportation, industry, and energy storage.[UPSC 2023]

National Green Hydrogen Mission

On 4th January 2023, the Union Cabinet approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an outlay of ₹ 19,744 crore from FY 2023-24 to FY 2029-30. The overarching objective of the Mission is to make India a global hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. 

• The following components have been announced as part of the Mission:

• • Facilitating demand creation through exports and domestic utilization;
  • Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, which includes incentives for manufacturing of electrolysers and production of green hydrogen;
  • Pilot Projects for steel, mobility, shipping etc.;
  • Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs;
  • Support for infrastructure development;
  • Establishing a robust framework of regulations and standards;
  • Research & Development programme;
  • Skill development programme; and Public awareness and outreach programme.

Conclusion

India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched to boost production and usage of green hydrogen, signifies a significant step towards a cleaner energy future. 

• By investing in green hydrogen technologies and infrastructure, India aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate carbon emissions. 
• This mission aligns with global efforts to transition towards sustainable and low-carbon energy systems.

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