A recent research study conducted by the Council for Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) underscores India's current hydrogen consumption, which stands at approximately 5.6 million tonnes. The majority of this hydrogen is derived from methane. In addition, India imports around 1.9 million tonnes of hydrogen in various forms such as methanol, ammonia, and fertilizers. This collectively results in an annual hydrogen consumption of a substantial 7.5 million tonnes in India.
In response to this pressing issue, India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, launched the National Hydrogen Mission in January 2022. The primary aim of this mission is to fulfill 7.5 million tonnes of India's annual hydrogen demand through the local production of green hydrogen. This endeavor positions India as a leading global producer and supplier of hydrogen. By embracing this mission, India hopes to make significant strides in achieving its climate targets and realizing its vision of net-zero emissions, with the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by a cumulative 3.6 gigatonnes by 2050.
Under the National Hydrogen Mission, India is targeting an increase in its production capacity to a minimum of five million metric tons annually by 2030. This expansion will be accompanied by a boost of approximately 125 gigawatts (GW) in renewable energy capacity. Private enterprises, international institutions, and organizations are actively supporting this mission, with noteworthy investments such as the $1 billion commitment by the EU Bank and Brookfield Renewables in Indian companies specializing in green hydrogen technology.
Moreover, the recent G20 declaration emphasizes the importance of establishing a sustainable and equitable global hydrogen ecosystem, signaling a transition from theoretical discussions to practical implementation. Green hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Despite the challenges, repurposing abandoned coal and lignite mines holds the potential to be a game-changing solution for cost-effective green hydrogen production. These sites offer several advantages, including ample land for utility-scale solar and wind projects, existing freshwater resources, and readily available transmission infrastructure.
As estimated by the Ministry of Coal, significant land resources are expected to become available due to coal phase-outs. Even if a small fraction of these lands is repurposed for green hydrogen production, they have the potential to generate over one million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually.
The benefits of repurposing these reclaimed mines are evident. This approach not only addresses land, water, and infrastructure challenges but also brings economic advantages by creating employment opportunities and revitalizing coal-dependent communities. Recent initiatives, such as the conversion of a retired coal mine in the United States into a green hydrogen facility, underscore the feasibility and potential of this approach.
To expedite green hydrogen production on repurposed mine lands, India should conduct exploratory studies and incentivize private developers to invest in these locations. Policy mechanisms, including green hydrogen consumption obligations, can further bolster the financial viability of such projects.
While the potential benefits of repurposing coal mines are substantial, it is crucial to address environmental concerns and evaluate resource availability in these regions. With careful planning and management, repurposing mines for green hydrogen production could play a pivotal role in India's transition to clean energy and emissions reduction.
In conclusion, the repurposing of abandoned coal and lignite mines for green hydrogen production presents significant potential benefits and noteworthy challenges. It necessitates a comprehensive strategy that minimizes environmental impacts and maximizes economic advantages. If executed effectively, this approach can make a substantial contribution to India's transition to green energy and the reduction of carbon emissions.