India Advances Green Hydrogen Mission with Green Ammonia Production Initiative

Government has initiated a new project aimed at increasing demand for green hydrogen and its byproducts. Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has issued a Request for Selection (RfS) for identifying producers of green ammonia. This initiative, under Mode 2A of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Programme, forms a part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission led by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE).

National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched on January 4, 2023, has allocated Rs. 19,744 crores for expenditure up to FY 2029-30. This ambitious mission aims to support India's aspiration of becoming Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) through clean energy initiatives. It is anticipated to significantly decarbonize the economy, reduce fossil fuel import dependency, and position India as a leader in both technology and market for green hydrogen.

The competitive bidding process involves a total available capacity of 539,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) per annum of green ammonia, which will be executed via an e-bidding followed by an e-Reverse Auction. The produced green ammonia is earmarked for supply to fertilizer companies, ensuring a green shift in agricultural inputs.

Previously, MNRE issued guidelines for the SIGHT Programme's implementation, particularly focusing on Component II: Incentives for the Procurement of Green Ammonia Production (under Mode 2A) of the National Green Hydrogen Mission. SECI has been designated as the implementing agency for this initiative.

This green ammonia production effort follows MNRE's earlier allocation of 412,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) per annum of green hydrogen production capacity and 1.5 GW per annum of electrolyzer manufacturing capacity under the SIGHT Programme.

These measures collectively underline India's commitment to a sustainable and self-reliant energy future, setting a robust framework for global leadership in green energy transition.