Indian Government Unveils Green Hydrogen Guidelines for Shipping Sector Pilot Projects

New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released guidelines for pilot projects utilizing green hydrogen in the shipping sector, under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Titled “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Shipping Sector,” these guidelines were issued on February 1, 2024.

The pilot projects, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aim to replace fossil fuels and fossil fuel-based feedstock with green hydrogen and its derivatives in the shipping sector. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will oversee the implementation of these projects, which focus on retrofitting existing ships for green hydrogen use and developing bunkering and refueling facilities in ports on international shipping lanes.

The scheme, with a total budgetary outlay of Rs. 115 crores until the financial year 2025-26, is expected to lead to the creation of essential infrastructure, including refueling stations, storage, and distribution networks, fostering the establishment of a green hydrogen ecosystem in the shipping sector.

Green hydrogen utilization in shipping is anticipated to increase over time, aligning with a reduction in production costs. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to clean energy, self-reliance, and contributing to the global Clean Energy Transition.