Decarbonizing the Maritime Sector: MNRE Guidelines for Green Hydrogen Pilot Projects

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has recently unveiled the "Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot Projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Shipping Sector." Launched under the aegis of the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), this initiative marks a significant step toward decarbonizing India’s maritime industry, which is traditionally considered a "hard-to-abate" sector due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels.

The scheme focuses on two primary components. First, it supports the retrofitting of existing ships to enable them to run on Green Hydrogen or its derivatives, such as Green Ammonia and Green Methanol. Second, it aims to develop essential infrastructure, including bunkering and refueling facilities at major ports, to create a robust supply chain for green fuels. With a total financial outlay of ₹115 crore until the financial year 2025-26, the project will be executed through the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and other nominated agencies.

From a policy perspective, this move aligns with India’s "Maritime India Vision 2030" and the "Amrit Kaal Vision 2047," which emphasize sustainable port development and the "Green Tug Transition Program." By transitioning to Green Hydrogen, India aims to reduce its carbon footprint in international trade routes, enhance energy security, and position itself as a global leader in the production and export of green fuels.

However, the transition faces challenges such as high initial capital costs, the need for specialized storage technologies, and the requirement for international standardization in bunkering. These pilot projects are designed to identify these technical bottlenecks and demonstrate the commercial viability of hydrogen-based propulsion in real-world maritime operations. Successful implementation will not only help India meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) but also foster indigenous technological capabilities in the renewable energy sector.