Gujarat’s Green Hydrogen Push: A Case Study

Gujarat is poised to become a global leader in Green Hydrogen production, reflecting the state’s commitment to sustainable energy and alignment with India’s national goals for clean energy and carbon neutrality. The Gujarat government has set an ambitious target to produce 3 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen annually by 2030, supported by a substantial investment of ₹2 trillion. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and increase reliance on renewable energy sources. By leveraging its existing renewable energy infrastructure and attracting significant investments, Gujarat aims to play a pivotal role in India’s mission to achieve 5 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen production by 2030. The Current Landscape of Green Hydrogen in Gujarat Gujarat’s Green Hydrogen landscape is rapidly evolving, supported by the state’s robust renewable energy infrastructure. As India’s leading producer of renewable energy, Gujarat generates over 15% of the country’s total renewable power. This vast capacity, particularly in solar and wind energy, is crucial for Green Hydrogen production, which requires significant renewable electricity to electrolyze water. The state has also allocated 200,000 hectares of land in Kutch and Banaskantha districts for renewable energy projects, further boosting its Green Hydrogen ambitions. This infrastructure not only meets the current demand but also positions Gujarat to scale up production efficiently, contributing significantly to India’s national goal of achieving 5 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen by 2030 Achievements So Far: Key Milestones in Gujarat’s Green Hydrogen Journey Gujarat has made significant strides in Green Hydrogen production, marked by recent developments at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024. The state announced its ambitious target to produce 3 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen annually by 2030, supported by a ₹2 trillion budget. Notable partnerships, such as those with Advait Infratech, have further propelled Gujarat’s Green Hydrogen initiatives. Advait Infratech has made significant contributions to Gujarat’s green hydrogen initiatives, particularly through its subsidiary, Advait Greenergy.  The company has secured contracts worth ₹726.9 million for Green Hydrogen projects in Gujarat, highlighting its role in advancing the state’s renewable energy infrastructure. One of their notable projects includes the EPC of a 30 MW solar plant in Khavda, which supports Green Hydrogen production. Additionally, during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, Advait Infratech signed an MoU to establish manufacturing facilities for fuel cells and electrolyzers, crucial components for Green Hydrogen production, further solidifying Gujarat’s position as a leader in sustainable energy. Government Initiatives and Policies Driving Green Hydrogen Growth Gujarat’s government has been proactive in fostering the growth of Green Hydrogen through a series of strategic initiatives and policies. The state is finalizing a comprehensive Green Hydrogen Policy, set to be unveiled in 2024, which offers substantial incentives for businesses investing in Green Hydrogen projects. These incentives include financial support, subsidies, and tax benefits, coupled with a special land allocation strategy that has earmarked 200,000 hectares in Kutch and Banaskantha districts for renewable energy projects. This government backing has been instrumental in attracting major investments, such as the ₹10 lakh crore commitment from Reliance and Adani Group. Furthermore, Gujarat’s focus on international collaborations, including partnerships with global leaders in hydrogen technology, has accelerated the development of infrastructure and advanced the state’s ambition to become a global hub for Green Hydrogen production Future Prospects: Gujarat’s Roadmap to 2030 and Beyond Gujarat is on a bold trajectory with its roadmap to produce 3 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen annually by 2030. To achieve this, the state has planned investments focusing on expanding renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in the solar and wind sectors. This investment aims to ensure that Gujarat remains at the forefront of India’s green energy revolution. The potential impact of Gujarat’s initiatives extends beyond regional development. By becoming a global hub for Green Hydrogen, Gujarat can help India reduce its carbon footprint, advance its energy security, and meet international climate goals. However, challenges such as reducing production costs, improving technology, and scaling infrastructure remain. Overcoming these hurdles presents significant opportunities for innovation and leadership in the global shift toward sustainable energy.

Building a Sustainable Future: Careers in Green Energy

The global focus on sustainability has led to an urgent push for green energy as a key solution to mitigate climate change. Governments and industries around the world are increasingly investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower to reduce carbon emissions and shift away from fossil fuels. In India, the government has set an ambitious target to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2030, driving significant investments in renewable energy to meet this goal. This transition not only supports environmental goals but is also creating vast opportunities for the workforce of the future. Till 2 years ago, the renewable energy sector employed 13.7 million people worldwide, and this figure is expected to rise to over 38 million by 2030 as the sector continues to grow. Solar energy, which alone accounts for over 4.3 million jobs globally, is a major driver of this growth. This expansion is generating a wide range of career opportunities, from engineering and project management to policy-making and environmental consulting, marking the green energy sector as a vital field for those interested in building a sustainable future. The Demand for Green Energy Professionals The rising global demand for clean energy solutions is reshaping the job market, especially in sectors like solar, wind, and hydropower. With the accelerating transition away from fossil fuels, the need for green energy professionals has grown rapidly. Areas like renewable energy generation and energy efficiency are emerging as major sectors driving this shift. Solar energy remains the top employer, but wind energy and biofuel technologies are also creating thousands of new positions each year. Key roles in this sector include engineers, project managers, technicians, policy makers, and sustainability consultants. Innovation in technologies such as battery storage, smart grids, and electric vehicle infrastructure has also opened up specialized career opportunities. In addition to technical experts, businessmen, strategy makers, process engineers, draftsmen, and site workers play an integral part in driving the renewable energy industry forward. Business leaders and strategists craft the vision and financial models that guide sustainable projects, while process engineers and draftsmen ensure the designs and operations run smoothly. Site workers, working hands-on in the field, bring these innovations to life. Each of these roles is essential in aligning business goals with environmental sustainability, contributing to the sector’s growth and development. These professionals are crucial in maintaining the momentum of the clean energy transition, ensuring projects are efficient, scalable, and environmentally sustainable. As the world moves toward net-zero goals, the demand for skilled workers in renewable energy is expected to continue rising, creating long-term job security and career growth potential. Key Skills Needed in the Green Energy Sector To thrive in the rapidly evolving green energy industry, professionals need a mix of technical and soft skills. On the technical side, STEM-related skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are essential, with particular demand for expertise in areas like renewable energy systems, electrical engineering, and environmental science. Data analysis and project management are also critical for planning, executing, and optimizing energy projects. Moreover, problem-solving and innovation are key as the sector is continually evolving with new technologies like smart grids and battery storage. Interdisciplinary knowledge is also important, combining engineering, policy, and environmental awareness. Professionals who can integrate technical skills with an understanding of environmental impacts and regulatory frameworks are highly valued. Opportunities for upskilling abound through universities, online courses, and certifications focused on renewable energy. Many programs now offer specialized training in areas like solar panel installation, wind energy, carbon consultancy and sustainable management, enabling both new entrants and experienced professionals to stay competitive in this dynamic field​ Opportunities and Career Growth in Green Energy The green energy sector presents vast opportunities for career growth, driven by the global transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and electric vehicles. With governments and businesses focusing on sustainability, professionals in this field can expect long-term job security. Careers in green energy span across various roles such as engineers, project managers, policy makers, and technicians, providing individuals with diverse avenues for specialization. Green energy careers not only support environmental goals but also contribute significantly to global economic growth by creating jobs that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve energy efficiency. Youth are increasingly being encouraged to participate in the sector through initiatives that promote inclusivity and skills development, helping to diversify and strengthen the green workforce. Industries leading the shift toward sustainability include renewable energy generation, electric vehicles, and energy efficiency technologies. These sectors are paving the way for an energy-efficient future while offering robust career growth opportunities for professionals worldwide. India’s Role in Green Energy Careers India is making great strides in its transition to clean energy, driven by key initiatives like the National Solar Mission and ambitious renewable energy targets. By 2030, India aims to install 500 GW of renewable energy capacity, with solar and wind energy playing leading roles. The country is rapidly scaling up solar parks, wind farms, and electric mobility solutions, and investing in energy storage technologies to create a more sustainable energy landscape. Government policies, including subsidies, tax incentives, and the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO), are supporting the growth of green energy careers. These policies provide a foundation for the development of a robust workforce that can manage India’s shift toward renewable energy. For Indian youth, green energy offers a wide array of opportunities. Universities and vocational programs now provide courses in renewable energy, sustainability, and electric vehicle technology, enabling students to enter the workforce with the necessary skills. Additionally, entrepreneurship in sustainability is growing, allowing young innovators to contribute to green solutions like solar energy projects, battery storage systems, and bioenergy initiatives. This sector promises both job security and the chance to make a significant impact on global sustainability efforts. For example, Plaksha University has launched the Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy to support India’s transition to a net zero-carbon, energy-secure future. The center focuses on research areas such as Smart Homes, District Cooling with Thermal Storage, and Mitigation of Urban Heat Island

Advait Infratech Expands Stake in TECO 2030 to Boost Clean Energy and Fuel Cell Technology in India and SRAAC

Advait Infratech Limited has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Advait Energy Holdings AS, has made an additional investment in Norwegian clean-tech company, TECO 2030 AS. Following this second tranche of investment, Advait Energy Holdings AS now holds a 4.89% stake in TECO 2030. The investment stems from a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two companies on April 11, 2024. The partnership aims to leverage their combined expertise to promote clean energy initiatives, particularly focusing on the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of TECO 2030’s fuel cell technology in the Indian and SRAAC markets. This move is in line with Advait Infratech’s ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and strengthening green energy partnerships. Business News This Week , Quick Biz News ,

The Hydrogen Stream: Advait Infratech arm increases investment in Norway’s fuel cell company TECO 2030

India’s Advait Infratech Ltd announced today that its arm Advait Energy Holdings AS has made a further investment in Norwegian clean-tech company TECO 2030 AS. With this second tranche, Advait Energy Holdings AS stake now stands at 4.89% of TECO 2030 AS shares.  TECO 2030 develops PEM hydrogen fuel cell stacks and PEM hydrogen fuel cell modules that enable ships and other heavy-duty applications to become emissions-free.  Advait’s investment in TECO 2030 is based on the strategic MoU signed between the two companies on April 11, 2024. The collaboration aims to harness their combined expertise to advance clean energy solutions, focusing on the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of TECO 2030’s fuel cell technology in the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) member countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).  Established in 2009, Advait Infratech provides end-to-end solutions for power transmission, substation, and telecommunication infrastructure and has diversified into renewable energy.   Equatic has started production of oxygen-selective anodes (OSAs) in California and aims to reach full capacity by the end of 2024. It plans to produce 4,000 units per year at the facility. “During the first phase of research, the team developed electrodes with finely architectured catalysts that do not react with the salt in seawater,” said the California-based company. “As a result, the chlorine in the salt remains stable and safe, while hydrogen gas is generated and captured to be used as clean energy.” It claimed that its technology enhances the lifespan of anodes and improves their recyclability. After three years, the anodes require only a new coating of catalysts made from inexpensive, abundant elements, allowing them to be restored to like-new condition and extend their usability for decades. In June 2022, ARPA-E, a US Department of Energy agency, granted $3 million in funding over three years. The proprietary electrolyzer separates seawater into two liquids – an acid and a base stream – and two gases, hydrogen and oxygen. The acid stream is neutralized with crushed rock to prevent ocean acidification, while the base stream interacts with the atmosphere to capture carbon dioxide from the air. The company said its clean hydrogen production will help reduce carbon removal costs to below $100 per metric ton by 2030. It will integrate oxygen-selective anodes into Equatic-1, its upcoming demo-scale plant in Singapore, as well as its first commercial-scale plant in Quebec. Nuvera Fuel Cells said it will demonstrate its first operational hydrogen-powered AC generator set and DC fast charger for on-site power and electric-vehicle charging. “The prototype unit, developed in collaboration with power management services provider Power Innovations International, will be demonstrated at the Fresno, California location of Papé Material Handling,” said the Massachusetts-based company. The generator is intended to provide on-demand power to locations with limited or no grid access. Development of the fully commercial version is currently underway. Magma Power has secured 11 global patents for its magma-based renewable energy technology. “Magma Power’s patented systems are capable of producing baseload renewable energy at a target cost of $0.01/kWh, a rate that could significantly reduce energy costs across industries,” said the Florida-based company. It claimed that it could enable the production of green hydrogen, ammonia, and kerosene. It noted that it is offering exclusive licensing agreements for over 1,000 identified global sites where magma power can be produced. RWE Supply & Trading has agreed to a long-term supply deal for green ammonia with AM Green Ammonia, sourced from the latter’s production sites in Kakinada and Tuticorin, India. AM Green Ammonia’s facilities will be powered entirely by carbon-free energy, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. RWE expects deliveries to begin by 2027, with a subsequent offtake agreement outlining contractual terms. TotalEnergies has joined the Japan Hydrogen Fund as an investor, alongside several major Japanese companies, to support the development of the low-carbon hydrogen value chain. The fund, launched by the Japan Hydrogen Association and managed by Advantage Partners, initially holds more than $400 million from key investors, including Toyota, Iwatani, Sumitomo Mitsui, MUFG Bank, Tokyo Century, Japan Green Investment Corp., and the Bank of Fukuoka. Rystad Energy said Spain could reach around 5 GW of installed electrolyzer capacity by 2030, but it will need more subsidy programs to hit its 11 GW goal. The Norwegian energy research firm noted that most green hydrogen projects in Spain are low-risk and likely to be completed on time, given strong government support. The company also said it expects Germany to achieve 4.5 GW by 2030, short of its 10 GW target.

Advait Infratech Limited Announces 14th Annual General Meeting, Record Date for Dividend, and E-Voting Information

Advait Infratech Limited has announced the convening of its 14th Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 4:00 PM IST. The AGM will be held at the Ahmedabad Management Association, Atira Campus, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai Marg, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. In compliance with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and SEBI guidelines, the AGM will be convened for adoption of the financial statements for FY 2023-24, the Board’s Report, and the Auditor’s Report, along with other relevant documents and other Agenda items as set out in the notice of AGM. Members have been sent the AGM Notice and related documents electronically as of September 7, 2024. These documents are also available for inspection on the Company’s website at https://advaitinfra.com/annual-reports/ and on the platforms of BSE Limited and NSDL. E-Voting InformationMembers can participate in the voting process for the AGM via e-voting. Remote e-voting will commence at 9:00 AM IST on Thursday, September 26, 2024, and close at 5:00 PM IST on Sunday, September 29, 2024. Members attending the AGM who have not utilized remote e-voting will have the opportunity to vote through ballot paper during the AGM. Media Bulletins, Content Media Solution,

From Policy to Practice: Tracking Green Hydrogen Developments Across Indian States

Renewable energy forms the basis for the production of Green Hydrogen. Removal of renewable energy means very clearly that hydrogen production would again depend on feedstock sourced from fossil fuel-based material, completely defeating the purpose of this clean alternative to fossil fuel-based energy. MNRE or the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, has set a threshold for emissions that need to be met by the produced hydrogen sourced from renewables to be classified as ‘Green Hydrogen.’  This category includes all electrolysis or biomass conversion processes used to produce green hydrogen. Renewable energy also includes electricity generated from renewable sources that are stored in energy storage systems or banked with the grid. National Green Hydrogen Mission India has inclusively set ambitious targets under its National Green Hydrogen Mission-to be added up to 5 mmt of Green Hydrogen per year by 2030-which calls for about 125 GW of renewable energy production.  This goal also aligns with the larger renewable energy targets that India has set, including the achievement of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by the year 2030. India’s growth in renewable capacity jumped 396% over the last nine years. To help reach these goals, and has floated a number of tenders for projects around offshore wind and pumped storage. The Solar Energy Corporation of India, or SECI, introduced initiatives that have single-handedly driven the growth of solar energy, and plans for concentrated solar power are currently being considered to increase this capacity. India presently is the fourth contributor in global renewable energy installed capacity and wind power capacity, and fifth in solar power capacity. The all-renewable, including large hydro installed capacity reached 190.57 GW as of March 2024. Renewable energy addition in the country grew 9.83% year-on-year in 2022, with the country moving on to meet its commitment to clean energy. The Union Cabinet has approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an initial outlay of ₹ 19,744 crore and is expected to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 over 2005 levels. It also aims at 50% of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030 and is projected to reduce carbon emissions by one billion tonnes from 2023 to 2030. The Mission will create Green Hydrogen production capacity, over six lakh jobs, and decrease fossil fuel imports over INR one lakh crore, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emission abatement. Why is India betting big on hydrogen? Subsequently, various states of India have come up with their own policy on Green Hydrogen, which is complementary to the national mission. It has specified objectives and incentives.  Maharashtra Green Hydrogen Policy  In October 2023, Maharashtra announced its ambitious “Maharashtra Harit Hydrogen Policy” with aspirations to become the leading Green Hydrogen producer and consumer state. The policy aims at 500 KTPA of production capacity for Green Hydrogen by 2030, decarbonization in industries and the energy sector, and also exports of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. For this, the policy provides a gamut of incentives that includes a 30% capital cost subsidy for the first three anchor Green Hydrogen production projects, a subsidy for the first 500 hydrogen-based fuel-cell passenger vehicles for MSRTC on a maximum cap of ₹60 lakh per vehicle, the development of HRS with a maximum cap of ₹4.5 crore, and constructing hydrogen transportation pipelines up to 10 km with a limit of ₹2.5 crore. Additionally, there is a 1% interest subsidy on hydrogen transport projects, a 100% exemption on stamp duty charges for land conversion, a 60% discount on electricity transmission and wheeling charges for 10 years, mandatory use of renewable energy for hydrogen production, and waivers and exemptions on electricity duties and surcharges. Furthermore, a grant of ₹50 per kg is provided for blending Green Hydrogen with CNG/PNG for vehicles for five years. Odisha Hydrogen Policy Odisha has developed an integrated Renewable Energy policy that includes Green Hydrogen and its derivatives, offering various incentives to promote green energy initiatives. Under the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) 2022, industries focusing on green energy, particularly Green Hydrogen and Ammonia manufacturing units, receive substantial benefits. These include a 100% exemption from electricity duty for 20 years, exemption or reimbursement of cross-subsidy charges and additional surcharges, and a reimbursement of Rs. 3 per unit of RE purchased from local Discoms/GRIDCO for 20 years. Additionally, there is a 30% capital subsidy for plant and machinery, land provided at 50% of the prevailing concessional industrial rate, and a 50% incentive for innovations and R&D activities up to ₹10 Crore. Furthermore, a 100% incentive is provided for ESI and EPF contributions for seven years.Complementing the IPR, the Renewable Energy Policy 2022 encourages RE projects that indirectly benefit Green Hydrogen production. This policy includes an exemption from electricity duty for RE used for 15 years, reduced wheeling charges for consuming RE, and exemption from stamp duty and other land-related charges for RE projects. Together, these policies aim to create a favorable environment for the growth and development of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives in Odisha. West Bengal Green Hydrogen Policy This policy launched in December 2003, by the state government of West Bengal, has recently promulgated its Green Hydrogen Policy, which will be effective for five years from the date of notification or to such time period as may be amended from time to time by the state government.  The policy aims to identify the demand centres of Green Hydrogen through GIS mapping; promote investment intention in GH₂ and GA production facilities; and establish a State Centre of Excellence to help R&D activities for techno-economic innovation to support other states. It also works on formulating procurement and trading strategies for the supply and exchange of GH₂/GA resources and employment generation through GH₂/GA development. The key incentive component includes 100% exemption from stamp duty and land conversion charges; 100% waiver of electricity duty charges during the policy period; and banking of renewable energy power allowed for 30 days for GH₂/GA production units. Andhra Pradesh: Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia Policy The Government of Andhra Pradesh notified its Green Hydrogen and Green

Advait Infratech Limited Announces Key Appointments and 14th Annual General Meeting Date

 Advait Infratech Limited has made several significant announcements following the meeting of its Board of Directors held on September 5, 2024. The Board has approved key appointments aimed at strengthening the company’s leadership. Ms. Deepa Fernandes has been appointed as the Company Secretary & Compliance Officer, effective from September 5, 2024. With over a decade of experience in secretarial and compliance functions, Ms. Fernandes brings a wealth of expertise in corporate governance, compliance management, and regulatory matters.  Additionally, Ms. Rutvi Sheth has been promoted in the company as the Head of Human Resources & Strategic Communication. Ms. Rutvi Sheth holds advanced degrees in Media Communications and Strategic Communications from prestigious institutions in the UK such as London School of Economics and Political Science. She brings valuable experience in strategic communications on all fronts. Furthermore, the company has designated Mr. Harsha Jayaram as the Head of New & Renewable Energy Business. Mr. Jayaram, with a background in Chemical Engineering and significant experience in business development and renewable energy, will play a crucial role in the company’s expansion into sustainable energy solutions. The Board also approved the allotment of 1,41,591 convertible warrants to non-promoter allottees, in accordance with the SEBI (ICDR) Regulations and shareholder approval granted at the Extra-Ordinary General Meeting held in August 2024. This strategic capital-raising initiative will support the company’s growth plans. The 14th Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of Advait Infratech Limited is scheduled to be held on September 30, 2024, at Ahmedabad Management Association. The Annual Report for FY 2023-24, along with the AGM notice, will be sent to shareholders electronically and made available on the company’s website. Shareholders are encouraged to register their email addresses to receive important updates and participate in the e-voting process. Additionally, Advait Infratech Limited has set Monday, September 23, 2024, as the “Cut-off Date” for determining the eligibility of shareholders to vote on the resolutions outlined in the AGM notice and attend the meeting. The same date has also been designated as the “Record Date” for identifying shareholders eligible to receive the dividend for the financial year 2023-24. Should the dividend be declared at the AGM, it will be disbursed within twenty days following the conclusion of the meeting. Ground News

Advait Infratech Limited Secures Strategic Award for Setting Up 200 MW Alkaline Electrolysers Manufacturing Capacities in India

Advait Infratech Limited has been awarded a significant contract to establish manufacturing capacities for 200 MW of alkaline electrolysers in India. The order, announced today comes from the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Scheme (Tranche-II). The shares of Advait Infratech Limited were trading at ₹1979.70 up by 94.25 or 5% today on the BSE at 2:05 pm The contract, valued at approximately ₹200 crore, aims to boost domestic production of green hydrogen technology. Advait Infratech received the order on August 27, 2024. The company is expected to set up facilities for manufacturing alkaline electrolysers with a capacity of 200 MW. This development aligns with India’s push towards sustainable energy solutions and self-reliance in green technology manufacturing. The SIGHT Scheme, implemented by SECI, is part of the government’s efforts to accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen in the country’s energy mix. News on Projects, Bio Energy Times, Gleaf. in, Mercom India, Capital Market, Inshorts, DSIJ,