Govt. Invites Proposals for Green Hydrogen Excellence Centers

The Government of India, through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has issued a call for proposals (CfP) for setting up Centers of Excellence (CoE) under the Research and Development (R&D) Scheme of the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Announced on 4th November 2024.

Overview

Objective 

• The Government of India has issued a Call for Proposals (CfP) for the establishment of Centres of Excellence (CoE) under the Research and Development (R&D) Scheme of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Issued by

• Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on 4th November 2024.

Purpose

• To foster innovation, sustainability, and energy independence through the development of Green Hydrogen technologies.

Key Objectives of the Centres of Excellence (CoE)

• Innovation in Green Hydrogen: The CoEs aim to promote innovation in the production, storage, and utilization of Green Hydrogen technologies.
• Energy Independence: Enhance India’s energy independence in the long term by advancing sustainable energy solutions.
• Low-Carbon Economy Transition: Support the transition to a low-carbon economy by advancing Green Hydrogen technologies.
• Fostering Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration between industry, academia, and the government to drive technological advancements in Green Hydrogen.

Functions and Role of the CoE

• Cutting-Edge Research: Act as focal points for pioneering research in the Green Hydrogen space.
• Skill Development: Provide training and skill development to equip the workforce for Green Hydrogen technologies.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Promote awareness and knowledge sharing in the Green Hydrogen ecosystem.
• Collaboration: Encourage partnerships among stakeholders, including public and private sectors, research institutions, and universities.

Funding and Implementation

• Allocated Budget: The government has allocated Rs 100 crores to set up the Centres of Excellence under the Green Hydrogen Mission.
• Guidelines: The MNRE had previously released guidelines for the R&D Scheme on 15th March 2024.
• Proposals Submission: Public and private entities, including research institutions and universities, are encouraged to submit proposals.

National Green Hydrogen Mission

1. Launched on: 4th January 2023.
2. Outlay: Rs. 19,744 crores, planned until FY 2029-30.

Goals

1. Promote self-reliance (Aatma Nirbhar) through clean energy.
2. Serve as an inspiration for global clean energy transitions.
3. Decarbonize India’s economy.
4. Reduce dependency on fossil fuel imports.
5. Enable India to lead in Green Hydrogen technologies and markets.

Expected Outcomes

Decarbonization

• Significant reduction in carbon emissions.

Global Leadership 

• Position India as a leader in Green Hydrogen technologies.

Economic Growth

• Support the economic transition to sustainable and clean energy.