India’s Green Hydrogen Mission: A Closer Look at Sub-National Roles and Strategies

India’s aspiration to become a global leader in renewable energy is evident from its ambitious goals set forth in its climate commitments. The nation is not only the fastest growing market for renewable energy but also an attractive destination for renewable investments. Recognizing the critical role of Green Hydrogen, India has embarked on the National Green Hydrogen Mission aimed at achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070. This initiative intends to catalyze a systemic shift towards a Green Hydrogen economy, leveraging India’s vast renewable resources to potentially become a global supplier of Green Hydrogen. The Urgency of Energy Transition India’s energy consumption has doubled over the past two decades and is expected to increase by at least 25% by 2030. Currently, India imports more than 40% of its primary energy needs, which significantly impacts its economic and environmental sustainability. The reliance on imported fossil fuels in major sectors like mobility and industrial production underscores the necessity of transitioning to renewable energy sources. Green Hydrogen emerges as a promising solution, offering a way to integrate abundant renewable energy resources across seasons and regions, ultimately reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Strategic Importance of Green Hydrogen The global consensus on climate goals has heightened the demand for Green Hydrogen and its derivatives such as green ammonia and methanol. The volatility of fossil fuel prices, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions during events like the COVID-19 pandemic, has accelerated the shift towards greener alternatives. India, with its significant renewable energy potential and strategic geographic location, is poised to capitalize on this shift. However, the journey is fraught with challenges including high production costs, lack of standardized regulations, and the need for extensive infrastructure for storage and transportation of hydrogen. Mission Objectives and Implementation The overarching goal of India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission is to position the country as a global hub for the production, usage, and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. This aligns with India’s broader aim of self-reliance and clean energy transition. The mission targets the production of 5 million metric tonnes of Green Hydrogen annually by 2030, scaling up based on export market growth. It encompasses a comprehensive approach involving multiple sectors like ammonia production for fertilizers, steel manufacturing, and energy sectors including mobility and shipping. Sourcing and Infrastructure Development Current hydrogen consumption in India, primarily for industrial processes, is largely sourced from fossil fuels. The mission plans to shift this baseline towards Green Hydrogen through initiatives like setting up pilot projects, enhancing electrolyser technology, and reducing renewable energy costs. Infrastructure development is crucial, requiring coordinated efforts to establish renewable power delivery systems, storage solutions, and transportation networks for hydrogen. The mission is structured to be implemented in phases, starting with foundational activities to create demand and supply equilibrium and progressing towards more extensive integration of Green Hydrogen across the economy. The initial phase focuses on domestic electrolyser production and pilot projects in sectors already using hydrogen. Subsequent phases aim to expand applications and achieve cost parity with fossil fuels, significantly broadening the scope and scale of Green Hydrogen use. The Role of Sub-National Entities in India’s Green Hydrogen Mission The mission’s structure involves significant roles for state governments and local bodies, ensuring the development of Green Hydrogen hubs across the country. These hubs aim to leverage local renewable energy sources to produce Green Hydrogen, thus fostering regional economic growth and technological advancements. In response to the growing importance of sustainable energy, Indian states are implementing significant incentives to foster the development of Green Hydrogen. Gujarat is setting a pace by allocating ₹20 billion by 2030 to establish a 1 MMPTA Green Hydrogen capacity, with land allocation in Kutch specifically for existing companies in the sector. Maharashtra offers robust support with a 100% electricity discount for renewable projects, including Green Hydrogen and electrolyzer manufacturing. Additionally, the first 20 Green Hydrogen refueling stations benefit from a 30% capital cost subsidy, up to ₹4.50 crore each. Uttar Pradesh’s incentives include a complete exemption from land tax, land use conversion charges, and a 50% reduction in industrial water consumption charges for Green Hydrogen production. The state also offers 100% reimbursement of the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) for Green Hydrogen/ammonia production. Andhra Pradesh promotes the sector by waiving 100% of electricity duties for five years post-commissioning, along with a 25% reimbursement of intrastate transmission charges for the same period. Additionally, they provide SGST reimbursement on Green Hydrogen and ammonia sales for the initial five years after a project’s completion. These strategic incentives across multiple states demonstrate India’s commitment to transitioning towards a more sustainable and green energy ecosystem, positioning the country as a leader in the global Green Hydrogen market. Expected Outcomes by 2030 By the end of this decade, the mission aims to achieve a Green Hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) per annum. This is expected to raise an investment of over ₹8 lakh crore and create more than 6 lakh jobs, substantially reducing India’s carbon footprint by curtailing nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions​​. The development of a robust certification framework for Green Hydrogen and its derivatives, as well as the establishment of an enabling policy framework, are additional measures to support the mission’s goals. These frameworks will facilitate the delivery of renewable energy for Green Hydrogen production and establish standards for equipment and production processes. Conclusion The National Green Hydrogen Mission represents a bold step towards transforming India’s energy landscape. By fostering a conducive ecosystem for Green Hydrogen production, the mission not only aims to reduce dependency on fossil fuel imports but also positions India at the forefront of the global clean energy transition. With coordinated governmental efforts and international collaborations, India is set to unlock a future where Green Hydrogen fuels not just industries but also contributes to sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Advait’s end to end services to encourage Carbon Neutrality

Advait offers comprehensive end-to-end services to promote carbon neutrality, assisting businesses in achieving their sustainability goals. Through innovative strategies, they help reduce carbon footprints, implement renewable energy solutions, and optimize resource efficiency, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious corporate landscape.

The Rise of Green Hydrogen: Insights from India’s Ambitious $2.1 Billion Push

India is setting a global benchmark with its Green Hydrogen Mission, aiming to become a global hub for Green Hydrogen production and export. This ambitious initiative seeks to bolster energy independence and significantly decarbonize key economic sectors. The heart of this mission lies in achieving a Green Hydrogen production capacity of 5 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) and enhancing renewable energy capacity by 125 gigawatts (GW) by 2030. This is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 MMTPA. A central component of this effort is the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) program, which features two financial incentive mechanisms focused on domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and Green Hydrogen production. Policy Framework and Initiatives The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) is primarily focused on positioning India as a leader in Green Hydrogen production, utilization, and export. A significant aim is to replace Grey Hydrogen, currently used in industries like petroleum refining and ammonia production, with Green Hydrogen. The mission’s budget of Rs 197.44 billion (US$2.41 billion) is allocated across various segments, with Rs 174.9 billion (US$2.13 billion) dedicated to the SIGHT program. Other allocations include Rs 14.66 billion (US$178.8 million) for pilot projects and Rs 4 billion (US$48.8 million) for R&D. In the larger context of combating climate change and moving towards carbon neutrality, India’s move is both ambitious and timely. Let’s see the key Government Initiatives and how it aligns with global efforts to embrace cleaner, greener energy solutions. Government Initiatives and Policy Framework Establishment of the National Green Hydrogen Mission: The Indian government has set out the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an initial allocation of Rs. 19,744 crore. This mission targets the development of a Green Hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tons per annum by 2030, in tandem with an increase in renewable energy capacity by about 125 GW​​. Financial Incentives and Support: A significant portion of the mission’s budget, Rs. 17,490 crore, is dedicated to the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT), offering financial incentives for domestic electrolyzer manufacturing and Green Hydrogen production. This approach is designed to boost the indigenous manufacturing sector, aiding in the development of an efficient Green Hydrogen ecosystem​​. Pilot Projects in Key Sectors: The government has earmarked Rs. 1,466 crore for pilot projects in sectors such as low-carbon steel, mobility, and shipping, which are crucial for testing and demonstrating the viability of Green Hydrogen technologies in real-world applications​. Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs: The Mission plans to identify and cultivate regions capable of large-scale Green Hydrogen production and utilization. These Green Hydrogen Hubs will receive dedicated infrastructure development support, with an allocation of Rs. 400 crore up to 2025-26 for the initial phase​​. Enabling Policy Framework and Infrastructure Development: The government aims to provide various policy provisions, including waivers of interstate transmission charges for renewable energy used in Green Hydrogen production, to expedite the growth of the sector. Additionally, there is a focus on building supply chains for efficient hydrogen transport and distribution​. Regulation and Standards Development: Efforts are underway to establish a robust framework of regulations and standards, crucial for the sector’s growth and international alignment. This framework will include guidelines for quality and performance criteria, essential for integrating Green Hydrogen into various economic sectors​​. Research, Development, and Skill Development: A public-private partnership framework, the Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP), will be facilitated to encourage research and development. This R&D focus is expected to be goal-oriented and time-bound, aiming to develop globally competitive technologies. Additionally, coordinated skill development programs will be initiated to create a skilled workforce in the Green Hydrogen domain​.SECI’s RFS in SIGHT Program Attracts Major Interest SECI’s Request for Selection (RFS) for electrolyser production has sparked significant attention, drawing bids that total a remarkable 3328.5MW from 21 contenders, notably exceeding the initial 1500MW target. These bids originated from various parts of India. The ultimate locations for these manufacturing units will largely depend on the incentives and subsidies offered by individual state governments. In essence, the firms shall opt for locations providing the most advantageous support and benefits for their business operations. Issues and Challenges Faced by the Sector Despite the prevailing enthusiasm, the integration of Green Hydrogen into domestic industries is hampered by significant challenges. These challenges primarily stem from infrastructure limitations, regulatory ambiguities, and the absence of clear mandates. Moreover, the sector is confronted with concerns regarding bankability and anchor demand. To ensure project viability and achieve sales targets, manufacturers are required to secure anchor customers. This condition is pivotal for accessing the full spectrum of incentives. From a technological standpoint, there appears to be a discernible bias towards alkaline technology, predominantly due to its localization ease. This inclination could potentially result in overlooking opportunities to establish manufacturing bases for other competitive technologies. India’s progression towards green hydrogen signifies a significant advancement for our energy sector. It transcends mere technological advancements; it is about fostering a cleaner environment and ensuring a sustainable future for all. We are all integral to this journey, and it is indeed captivating to envision its future trajectory. Conclusion India’s substantial investment of $2.1 billion in Green Hydrogen underscores a significant advancement towards energy transition and sustainability. While the ambition and progress achieved are commendable, the journey is replete with challenges, encompassing market readiness, infrastructure development, and technological adaptation. To surmount these challenges, a concerted and collaborative effort is imperative among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and technology providers. As the global community increasingly gravitates towards greener energy solutions, India’s Green Hydrogen initiative emerges as a noteworthy endeavor, positioned to influence and shape the international Green Hydrogen landscape.

Vibrant Gujarat 2024: A Business Odyssey In The Land Of Entrepreneurs

10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the summit not only celebrated the state’s current achievements but also set a strategic direction for the future. A recent study by Colliers India forecasts that India’s manufacturing sector might expand to a $1 trillion market by 2025-26. In this anticipated growth, Gujarat is expected to play a crucial role, especially considering its impressive performance in attracting investments in 2023. In 2023, Gujarat achieved a remarkable feat by attracting investments exceeding Rs 30,000 crore in the manufacturing sector. This substantial investment outpaced other Indian states, solidifying Gujarat’s position as the most preferred destination for manufacturing enterprises. The state’s success in this arena is attributable to its favourable industrial policies, robust infrastructure, and conducive business environment. Strategic Advancements and Policy Innovations The 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit served as a testament to the state’s innovative strategies and policy decisions that have catapulted its manufacturing sector to new heights. Gujarat’s investment-friendly policies, characterized by the lowest average setup costs and significant allocation of incentives specifically for manufacturing, have made it an attractive destination for both domestic and international investors. Gujarat’s strategic allocation of approximately 34.7% of incentives and benefits to the manufacturing sector, which has been a key factor in attracting such hefty investments. These policies have not only facilitated a surge in investments but have also fostered an environment conducive to the growth of various industries. The state boasts a low unemployment rate, robust connectivity with well-developed ports, and a stable governance model, all of which contribute to its attractiveness as an investment destination. Additionally, the well-planned infrastructural development, including affordable land availability, ample labour supply, and a business-friendly environment, further strengthens Gujarat’s position as a leading manufacturing powerhouse in India. Infrastructure and Industrial Ecosystem: Building the Future In its recent budget, the Gujarat government announced several initiatives that underline its commitment to building a sustainable and advanced industrial ecosystem. These include setting up a Fintech Hub at GIFT City, a Semiconductor School at Sanand, and a manufacturing hub for the space sector in Khoraj near Ahmedabad. The budget allocation for these projects indicates the government’s foresight in nurturing industries that are key to future economic growth. The development of the Sabarmati Riverfront, the expansion of logistics capabilities at Alang, and the establishment of the Gatishakti Cargo Terminal at Rafaleshwar are strategic moves to enhance the state’s infrastructure. These projects are not only expected to boost the state’s industrial capacity but also to create new employment opportunities and foster regional development. Gujarat: Emerging as India’s Green Energy Hub In addition to its industrial prowess, Gujarat is rapidly positioning itself as the green energy hub of India, adding a sustainable dimension to its growth story. The state’s strategic focus on renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind energy, is in line with global trends towards environmental sustainability. Gujarat’s vast coastline and geographical advantages have been effectively leveraged to establish substantial wind farms, while its high solar irradiance levels make it an ideal location for large-scale solar power projects. The government’s proactive policies and incentives in the renewable energy sector have attracted significant investments, leading to the establishment of some of India’s largest solar parks in the state. Amidst the numerous success stories emerging from Gujarat, a notable mention is Advait Infratech. Advait Infratech is exemplifying Gujarat’s entrepreneurial spirit as it recently won the SECI Tender bid, securing 100 MW with an incentive allocation of ₹1.48 billion. This achievement subtly underscores the state’s evolving landscape in the renewable energy sector and its attractiveness for substantial investments. A Vision for Sustainable Growth and Development Gujarat’s focus on emerging sectors such as semiconductors, agricultural technology, and waste management, particularly e-waste, is in alignment with global trends towards sustainability and technological innovation. The state’s initiatives in these areas, supported by various policy documents, demonstrate its commitment to embracing Industry 4.0, which includes the integration of AI, the adoption of 3D printing, and processes driven by the IoT. Gujarat’s strategic approach extends beyond traditional manufacturing. The state’s leadership in sectors like the automobile, FMCG, IT, and now, in emerging areas like semiconductors and space manufacturing, positions it as a versatile and forward-thinking industrial hub. The state’s governance stability over the past six terms has also created a favourable and secure environment for investors and developers, further cementing its position as an ideal destination for business and industrial growth. In conclusion, Vibrant Gujarat 2024 has marked a significant milestone in Gujarat’s journey towards becoming a global manufacturing leader. The state’s focused approach on strategic policy-making, robust infrastructure development, and investment in future-oriented sectors sets a blueprint for sustainable industrial growth. As Gujarat continues to excel in these areas, it solidifies its role as a critical contributor to India’s ambition of becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse, making it truly a land of entrepreneurs and industrial leaders.

TECO 2030 allies with Indian firm for fuel cell expansion in SAARC countries

Norwegian clean-tech company TECO 2030 and Indian firm Advait Infratech Limited have partnered to expand fuel cell technology in India. TECO 2030 produces zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell stacks and modules for maritime and heavy industries, and Advait Infratech focuses on power infrastructure and green energy markets. Simultaneously, Advait has injected approximately NOK 43 million ($4 million) through a private placement in TECO 2030 at a price of NOK 2.00 ($0.18) per share. Following the private placement, the parties will establish a joint venture in India, where Advait and TECO 2030 will respectively hold 51% and 49% of the outstanding shares. According to TECO 2030, the joint venture will receive the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize TECO 2030 fuel cell technology for the Indian market and SAARC countries. Furthermore, the venture will act as a collaboration between the parties towards creating and maintaining local development, production and commercialization capabilities with a presence in India, TECO 2030 noted. Tore Enger, Group CEO of TECO 2030, stated: “I am very excited to announce this strategic investment by Advait, and announce our collaboration plans for the Indian market. Advait represents a strong partner for us in India, especially with their expertise in the power and green energy markets. I am confident that our plans will create shareholder value.” Shalin Sheth, Managing Director and Founder of Advait Infratech, commented: “This collaboration underscores our dedication to innovation and excellence, while also enhancing the Indo-Norway ties in renewable energy. Leveraging TECO 2030’s manufacturing expertise, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and sustainable solutions to our customers.” To note, TECO 2030 is setting up Europe’s first giga production facility of hydrogen PEM fuel cell stacks and modules in Narvik, Norway. The production capacity will be built up through 2024 and 2025, targeting an output capacity of up to 200 MW of fuel cells in 2025, increasing to 1.6 GW in 2030.

Advait Infratech Limited (Advait) partners up with a Norway-based fuel cell company TECO 2035

Norwegian clean-tech company TECO 2030 and Indian firm Advait Infratech Limited have partnered to expand fuel cell technology in India. TECO 2030 produces zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell stacks and modules for maritime and heavy industries, and Advait Infratech focuses on power infrastructure and green energy markets. TECO 2030 will initiate a fuel cell expansion in India and SAARC countries, backed with NOK43m ($4m) from Advait Infratech Limited. Following a private placement of new shares in TECO 2030, the two companies will establish a joint venture (JV) in India, with Advait and TECO 2030 holding 51% and 49% of the outstanding shares, respectively. The JV will hold the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialise TECO 2030 Fuel Cell Technology for India and South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries. Under the collaboration between the two companies, they will the aim to create and maintain local development, production and commercialisation capabilities in the region.

Advait Infratech Limited (Advait) partners up with a Norway-based fuel cell company TECO 2035

(Norway and India, April 16th 2024) TECO 2030 ASA (“TECO 2030”) (OSE: TECO, OTC: TECFF, ISIN: NO0010887516) and Advait Infratech Limited (“Advait”) (BOM: 543230) have agreed on a term sheet for a partnership relating to a planned fuel cell expansion in India and SAARC countries. Simultaneously, Advait has committed to invest approx. NOK 43 million (USD 4 million) through a private placement of new shares in TECO 2030, at a price per share of NOK 2.00. TECO 2030 Board has agreed to resolve the private placement pursuant to the authorization granted to the Board by the annual general meeting on May 12th, 2023, and is expected to do so as soon as all formalities have been finalized. The settlement is expected to take place within Q2 2024. Following the private placement and subject to the parties’ agreement on the final terms of the cooperation, the parties intend to establish a joint venture in India, where Advait and TECO 2030 will hold 51% and 49% of the outstanding shares, respectively. The joint venture will hold the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize TECO 2030 Fuel Cell Technology for the India and SAARC countries and will be a collaboration between the parties aiming towards creating and maintaining local development, production, and commercialization capabilities with presence in India. Mr. Shalin Sheth, Managing Director and Founder of Advait Infratech, commented on the significance of this collaboration, saying, “Our partnership with TECO 2030 is a landmark alliance that will drive advancements in the renewable energy sector. This collaboration underscores our dedication to innovation and excellence, while also enhancing the Indo-Norway ties in renewable energy. Leveraging TECO 2030’s manufacturing expertise, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and sustainable solutions to our customers.” “I am very excited to announce this strategic investment by Advait, and announce our collaboration plans for the Indianmarket. Advait represents a strong partner for us in India, especially with their expertise in the power and green energy markets. I am confident that our plans will create shareholder value” says an enthusiastic Tore Enger, Group CEO, TECO 2030. The private placement represents a deviation from the shareholders’ pre-emptive right to subscribe for and be allocated the new shares. The board of directors of the Company (the “Board”) has carefully considered this in light of the equal treatment obligations under section 3.1 of the Euronext Growth Rule Book Part II and Oslo Børs’ Circular no. 2/2014, and is of the opinion that it is in compliance with these requirements and guidelines. The Board has considered whether the private placement is in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders, emphasizing that the Company requires additional financing to fund its operations, fuel cell industrialization and development projects going forward and that the benefits of a private placement is not obtainable by structures with longer lead time, such as a rights offering. Taking into consideration the current equity markets, the Company’s need for funding, execution risk and available alternatives, the Board is of the opinion that the waiver of the pre-emption rights inherent in the planned private placement is in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders. The new shares will be listed on Euronext Growth as soon as the share capital increase has been resolved and registered with the Norwegian Register of Business EnterprisesSource: ECO 2030 ASA

Advait Infratech Limited (Advait) partners up with a Norway-based fuel cell company TECO 2035

(Norway and India, April 16th 2024) TECO 2030 (OSE: TECO, OTC: TECFF, ISIN: NO0010887516) and Advait Infratech Limited (BOM: 543230) invests and partners up for fuel cell expansion in India and SAARC countries. Simultaneously, Advait injects approx. NOK 43 million (USD 4 million) through a private placement in TECO 2030 ASA at a price of NOK 2.00 per share. Following the private placement, the parties will establish a joint venture in India, were Advait and TECO 2030 will respectively hold 51% and 49% of the outstanding shares. The joint venture will receive the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize TECO 2030 Fuel Cell Technology to the Indian market and SAARC countries. The joint venture will act as a collaboration between the parties towards creating and maintaining local development, production, and commercialization capabilities with presence in India.n Mr. Shalin Sheth, Managing Director and Founder of Advait Infratech, commented on the significance of this collaboration, saying, “Our partnership with TECO 2030 is a landmark alliance that will drive advancements in the renewable energy sector. This collaboration underscores our dedication to innovation and excellence, while also enhancing the Indo-Norway ties in renewable energy. Leveraging TECO 2030’s manufacturing expertise, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and sustainable solutions to our customers.”n “I am very excited to announce this strategic investment by Advait, and announce our collaboration plans for the Indian market. Advait represents a strong partner for us in India, specially with their expertise in the power and green energy markets. I am confident that our plans will create shareholder value” says an enthusiastic Tore Enger, Group CEO, TECO 2030.

TECO 2030 raises NOK 43 million and partners up with Advait Infratech Limited (Advait) in India

Norwegian clean-tech company TECO 2030 and Indian firm Advait Infratech Limited have partnered to expand fuel cell technology in India. TECO 2030 produces zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell stacks and modules for maritime and heavy industries, and Advait Infratech focuses on power infrastructure and green energy markets. Following the private placement, the parties will establish a joint venture in India, were Advait and TECO 2030 will respectively hold 51% and 49% of the outstanding shares. The joint venture will receive the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize TECO 2030 Fuel Cell Technology to the Indian market and SAARC countries. The joint venture will act as a collaboration between the parties towards creating and maintaining local development, production, and commercialization capabilities with presence in India. Mr. Shalin Sheth, Managing Director and Founder of Advait Infratech, commented on the significance of this collaboration, saying, “Our partnership with TECO 2030 is a landmark alliance that will drive advancements in the renewable energy sector. This collaboration underscores our dedication to innovation and excellence, while also enhancing the Indo-Norway ties in renewable energy. Leveraging TECO 2030’s manufacturing expertise, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and sustainable solutions to our customers.” “I am very excited to announce this strategic investment by Advait, and announce our collaboration plans for the Indian market. Advait represents a strong partner for us in India, specially with their expertise in the power and green energy markets. I am confident that our plans will create shareholder value” says an enthusiastic Tore Enger, Group CEO, TECO 2030.