India’s First Green Hydrogen Hub Launched

The Green Hydrogen Hub (GHH) project has been officially launched in Pudimadaka, Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aims to establish India’s first integrated green hydrogen production facility. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually lay the foundation stone on January 8, 2025. This project represents step towards enhancing India’s renewable energy capacity and achieving its net zero goals by 2070.

Project Overview

The GHH project spans approximately 1,600 acres, located 2 km from the Bay of Bengal. It involves a joint venture between the Andhra Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation (NREDCAP) and NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL). The project will require an investment of around ₹1,84,700 crore, with the largest phase of investment occurring in 2027.

Capacity and Production

The GHH will feature a capacity to produce 1,500 tonnes per day (TPD) of green hydrogen. Additionally, it will produce 7,500 TPD of green hydrogen derivatives, including green methanol, green urea, and sustainable aviation fuel. This production primarily targets the export market, reinforcing India’s position in the global green energy landscape.

Infrastructure Development

The project will include various facilities, such as a green chemical zone with a capacity of 2.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), a chemical storage terminal, and port infrastructure. A 7 GW substation and an 80 million litres per day (MLD) desalination plant will also be developed. The overall operational framework aims for completion by 2032.

Employment Opportunities

The GHH project is expected to generate over 57,000 jobs by 2032. This employment boost will impact the local economy, encouraging growth in the region and contributing to India’s broader economic objectives.

Environmental Impact

The GHH project aligns with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030. It aims to facilitate decarbonisation across major sectors and support the nation’s quest for energy independence. The project will also contribute to India’s net zero goals by promoting sustainable energy practices.

1. GHH is the first project under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
2. The project site is 20 km from National Highway-16.
3. It will include a desalination plant extracting seawater 2 km away.
4. The investment plan spans multiple phases, with a peak in 2027.
5. It aims for 160 GW renewable energy capacity by 2024.

Infrastructure and Utilities

The project will utilise power supplied through the 400kV NTPC Simhadri and 800/765kV Anakapalli substations. Freshwater will be sourced from the Yeleru canal and the desalination plant. The development of common infrastructure is scheduled between May 2025 and December 2026, including roads, office spaces, and waste management systems.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs