India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector

 India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector

Context:

The Union Minister, recently inaugurated India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector.

Relevance:

GS-03(Environment)

Highlights:

• The plant is located at Jindal Stainless Limited, Hisar.
• It will be the world’s first off-grid Green Hydrogen plant for the stainless steel industry and the world’s first Green Hydrogen plant with rooftop & floating solar.
• Aim: To reduce carbon emissions considerably by around 2,700 Metric Tonnes per annum and 54,000 tons of CO2 emissions over the next two decades.
• The project not only aligns with the government’s vision for a cleaner and more sustainable future but also creates valuable employment opportunities.

Green hydrogen:

• Green hydrogen is a clean energy source generated through water electrolysis using renewable energy from wind, solar, and hydro power. It can play a crucial role in transitioning to a carbon-free economy, offering benefits such as zero greenhouse gas emissions.
• Developing renewable energy sources like green hydrogen enhances energy independence, reducing vulnerability to price shocks and supply disruptions associated with finite fossil fuels.
• It also fosters job creation in the renewable energy sector, addressing specialized needs in production, storage, and distribution.
• Green hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in challenging-to-decarbonize sectors, such as heavy industry and aviation, contributing to a reduction in their carbon footprint.

Applications of Green Hydrogen:

• Agriculture Sector: Green hydrogen can replace traditional fertilizers through the production of carbon-free green ammonia, offering improved efficiency and reduced soil acidity.
• Green Hydrogen-Powered Farm Machinery: Farm machinery powered by green hydrogen can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining the necessary power for essential tasks.
• Water Management: Green hydrogen can power desalination plants, converting saltwater into freshwater and enhancing water management for sustainable agriculture.
• Transport Sector: Hydrogen fuel cells in vehicles produce zero emissions, providing an attractive alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, with longer ranges and quick refueling times.
• Industrial Sector: The production of green hydrogen using excess renewable energy during off-peak hours can lead to cost savings. On-site production and storage provide a reliable energy source for industrial processes, promoting energy independence and reducing waste.
• Reduction in Waste: Green hydrogen production can utilize waste materials like municipal solid waste and agricultural waste, contributing to waste reduction and sustainable development.
• Increase in Energy Efficiency: Green hydrogen powering fuel cells offers greater energy efficiency compared to traditional combustion engines, contributing to overall energy consumption reduction.