The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has conducted the first-ever auction for purchasing Green Ammonia under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This auction took place via the SIGHT Scheme (Mode-2A) to promote cleaner alternatives in the energy and fertilizer sectors.
What is Hydrogen?
- Hydrogen is the lightest and most common element but doesn’t naturally exist in pure form. It must be extracted from other substances.
Types of Hydrogen:
- Grey Hydrogen: Produced using fossil fuels (like coal or natural gas). High carbon emissions.
- Blue Hydrogen: Similar to grey hydrogen but with carbon capture technology to reduce pollution.
- Green Hydrogen: Made by splitting water (electrolysis) using renewable electricity (solar, wind, etc.). Almost zero carbon footprint.
National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM)
- Launched: January 2023
- Budget: ₹19,744 crore (till FY 2029-30)
- Aim: To make India self-reliant in clean energy and become a global leader in green hydrogen production.
Key Components of the Mission
- SIGHT Programme: Provides financial support for setting up electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production units.
- Pilot Projects: Tests use of hydrogen in new sectors and identifies areas for green hydrogen hubs.
- R&D (SHIP): Encourages innovation through public-private partnerships.
- Skill Development: Plans to train manpower for jobs across the green hydrogen ecosystem.
Why Green Ammonia?
- Ammonia is widely used in fertilizers.
- Green ammonia is produced using green hydrogen, helping decarbonize the agriculture and industrial sectors.
Benefits of the Mission
- Cuts Carbon Emissions: Reduces CO₂ in power, transport, and industry.
- Energy Independence: Lowers import of fossil fuels.
- Export Potential: Opens avenues for exporting green hydrogen and derivatives.
- Domestic Manufacturing: Boosts local industry in clean energy tech.
- Job Creation: Expected to create over 6 lakh jobs.
- Technological Growth: Promotes innovation and advanced technology development.
Conclusion:
India’s first green ammonia auction marks a big step toward a carbon-neutral future. Through initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India is set to transform its energy landscape while leading the world in clean fuel innovation.
