Following Hardeep Puri’s push for alternative fuels, Pralhad Joshi sparks momentum for Green Hydrogen startups

NEW DELHI: Two days after Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighted India’s achievements in ethanol blending, Pralhad Joshi emphasized the importance of green hydrogen at the Curtain Raiser for ICGH2024.
Hardeep Singh Puri stated, “From 1.5% ethanol blending in 2014 to a record 15.8% in 2024, India is on track for 20% ethanol blending by 2025 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

Following Puri’s statement, Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy and Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, emphasized, “I envision India as a global leader and hub for green hydrogen and its derivatives.”

ALSO READ: Serum Institute fast-tracks monkeypox vaccine: ‘Initial studies by end of year’ says Mulay  

Joshi launched the Curtain Raiser for ICGH2024 on September 4 at Hyatt Regency, New Delhi, ahead of the main conference at Bharat Mandapam from September 11 to 13. The event was organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the Principal Scientific Adviser’s Office, and the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, DST, and DSIR. Key partners included SECI and FICCI.

While addressing the event, Joshi underscored the importance of the upcoming conference, calling it a milestone in the green hydrogen sector. He added, “The event aims to enhance understanding of the green hydrogen landscape, foster industry connections, and stimulate discussions on crucial aspects like the production, storage, and distribution of green hydrogen across nations.”

Joshi urged stakeholders to attend and contribute their ideas to shape the future of sustainable energy. He also stressed the need for more startups and financing in the green hydrogen space, expressing pride in India’s progress alongside developed countries.

ALSO READ: INDIA Bloc will restore statehood in J&K: Rahul Gandhi

In response to a question from The New Indian, Secretary (MNRE) Bhupinder S. Bhalla highlighted that the Green Hydrogen Mission aims to be more inclusive and engaging for youth through awareness initiatives, skilling, and training programs.

A teaser at the Curtain Raiser showcased India’s ambitious Green Hydrogen Mission, which details how the government lays the foundation to become a global hub for green hydrogen production, consumption, and export. The mission includes incentivizing electrolyzer manufacturing, increasing the production of green hydrogen and its derivatives, and launching pilot projects across key industries.

By 2030, India aims to produce 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen annually, create 600,000 jobs, and boost the production of green hydrogen and green ammonia.