In News:

India has signed agreements to supply 4.12 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen derivatives to Japan and Singapore, signaling its emergence as a global leader in green hydrogen. Simultaneously, the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI) was launched to ensure transparent and credible verification of green hydrogen production.

Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI)

• Launched by: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
• Nodal Agency: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
• Support: National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023; outlay ?19,744 crore)
• Certification by: Accredited Carbon Verification (ACV) Agencies
• Operational Basis: Evaluated annually, aligned with the financial year
• Objective:
  • Certify hydrogen produced exclusively using renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind, biomass) as "green."
  • Promote transparency, traceability, and market credibility.
  • Align with India’s target of 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen production by 2030.
  • Enable integration with India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme from 2026.
• Key Features:
  • Scope: Applies at the project level up to hydrogen purification (excludes transport/storage).
  • Eligibility: Applies to hydrogen produced via electrolysis and biomass conversion; additional methods subject to BEE approval.
  • Compliance: Mandatory for domestic producers; exempt for export-only units.
  • Verification: Annual third-party audits with data logging via the Green Hydrogen Portal.
  • GHG Measurement: Emissions calculated in kg CO? equivalent per kg of H?.
  • Guarantee of Origin (GO): Validates green hydrogen claims, crucial for global markets.

Significance and Impact

• Credibility Boost: Certified hydrogen gains international recognition and competitive advantage.
• Export Readiness: Facilitates global trade through verified green hydrogen standards.
• Investment Attraction: Defined certification process encourages private and foreign investment.
• Carbon Market Linkage: Future integration with India's carbon trading market allows certificates to become tradable assets.
• Fossil Fuel Reduction: Supports India’s long-term goal of energy transition and emission reduction.

International Agreements

• India to supply 4.12 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen derivatives to Japan and Singapore, enhancing strategic energy ties and export potential.
• Discussions ongoing with state governments to facilitate Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for renewable energy sourcing.
• Coordination underway with Ministry of Power and Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to address regulatory barriers.