India is making significant strides in the global green energy landscape, positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen production. On April 30, 2025, Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi announced that India will supply 4.12 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen derivatives to Japan and Singapore. This landmark agreement underscores India’s commitment to sustainable energy and its ambitious goal of achieving 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen production by 2030 under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
In addition to this international collaboration, India has launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI). This initiative aims to certify green hydrogen production, ensuring transparency, traceability, and credibility in the market. The GHCI is a crucial step toward establishing India as a trusted supplier of green hydrogen on the global stage. Here’s a closer look at these developments, their implications, and how they contribute to India’s vision of a greener future.
India’s Green Hydrogen Export Agreements
India’s agreements with Japan and Singapore to supply 4.12 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen derivatives mark a significant milestone in its clean energy journey. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources like solar and wind, is a clean alternative to fossil fuels. Its derivatives, such as ammonia and methanol, are used in industries like shipping, fertilizers, and power generation.
“India is emerging as a global leader in the field of green hydrogen,” said Minister Joshi. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are committed to achieving our target of 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen production by 2030.” These export agreements not only strengthen India’s position in the global energy market but also foster international partnerships for sustainable development.
The demand for green hydrogen is rising globally as countries aim to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. Japan and Singapore, both leaders in adopting innovative energy solutions, are ideal partners for India’s green hydrogen exports. This collaboration highlights India’s growing expertise in renewable energy and its ability to meet international standards.
The Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI)
Alongside the export announcement, India launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI). The GHCI is designed to ensure that green hydrogen is produced using 100% renewable energy sources, making it truly sustainable. All green hydrogen producers in India, except those producing solely for export, must undergo a certification process managed by Accredited Carbon Verification (ACV) Agencies listed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
The certification process verifies the renewable energy credentials of green hydrogen, ensuring transparency and traceability. This is critical for building trust in the global market, where buyers prioritize sustainability and quality. “Certification is crucial to ensure that green hydrogen is truly green,” Joshi emphasized. “With defined standards now in place, our green hydrogen will carry a mark of quality and credibility, making it globally competitive and export-ready.”
Once India’s carbon market launches in 2026, green hydrogen certificates will become tradable assets, creating new opportunities for producers and investors. This forward-thinking approach aligns with global trends, where carbon credits and green certifications are becoming integral to sustainable economies.
The National Green Hydrogen Mission
India’s green hydrogen initiatives are part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023 with a budget of Rs 19,744 crore. The mission aims to establish a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tonnes per year by 2030. It also focuses on developing infrastructure, fostering research and development, and creating a robust ecosystem for green hydrogen production and utilization.
To support this goal, the government is working on securing Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with state governments for renewable energy. Minister Joshi is also collaborating with the Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to resolve regulatory challenges. These efforts are essential for scaling up green hydrogen production and ensuring a steady supply of renewable energy.
Why Green Hydrogen Matters
Green hydrogen is a game-changer in the fight against climate change. Unlike traditional hydrogen, which is produced using fossil fuels, green hydrogen is made through electrolysis powered by renewable energy. This process emits no carbon, making it an environmentally friendly fuel for industries, transportation, and power generation.
India’s focus on green hydrogen aligns with its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By investing in green hydrogen, India is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also creating jobs, driving innovation, and boosting economic growth. The export agreements with Japan and Singapore are a testament to India’s potential to lead the global green energy revolution.
Challenges and Opportunities
While India’s green hydrogen ambitions are promising, challenges remain. Scaling up renewable energy infrastructure, reducing production costs, and streamlining regulations are critical to meeting the 2030 target. However, the opportunities are immense. Green hydrogen can transform industries, create sustainable supply chains, and position India as a key player in the global energy transition.
The GHCI and export agreements are steps in the right direction, providing a framework for quality assurance and market access. As India continues to innovate and collaborate, its green hydrogen sector is poised for exponential growth.
FAQs About India’s Green Hydrogen Initiatives
1. What is green hydrogen, and why is it important?
Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources like solar or wind through a process called electrolysis. It’s important because it’s a clean, sustainable fuel that can replace fossil fuels in industries, transportation, and power generation, helping reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
2. How does the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI) work?
The GHCI ensures that green hydrogen is produced using 100% renewable energy. Producers must undergo a certification process managed by Accredited Carbon Verification Agencies. Certified green hydrogen meets global standards, ensuring transparency and credibility, and will be tradable in India’s carbon market starting in 2026.
Conclusion
India’s commitment to supplying 4.12 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen derivatives to Japan and Singapore, combined with the launch of the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme, marks a pivotal moment in its clean energy journey. These initiatives reflect India’s ambition to lead the global green hydrogen market while advancing sustainability and economic growth. With the National Green Hydrogen Mission driving progress, India is well on its way to achieving its 2030 targets and shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
