India's Renewable Energy Capacity Reaches 195 GW, Minister Highlights Green Hydrogen Potential

New Delhi, Jul 20 (KNN) India's renewable energy capacity has more than doubled since 2014, reaching 195 gigawatts (GW), according to Union Minister Pralhad Joshi.

The Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy made this announcement at the inauguration of an electrolyser manufacturing facility in Doddaballapur, Karnataka.

Joshi outlined significant growth across renewable sectors. Solar power capacity has increased from 3 GW in 2014 to over 85 GW, while wind power capacity has grown from 21 GW to more than 46 GW in the past decade.

The newly inaugurated facility, operated by Ohmium, is expected to produce 2GW of fully assembled and tested electrolyser systems.

Joshi emphasised the importance of such facilities in enhancing India's energy security by enabling green hydrogen production and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

"Domestic electrolyzer manufacturing will ensure a steady supply, reducing import dependence and enhancing energy independence," Joshi stated.

He linked these developments to the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to position India as a global hub for hydrogen production, export, and usage.

The minister highlighted the potential of green hydrogen to decarbonize various sectors, including transportation, steel manufacturing, and heavy industry.

He also noted government incentives, such as waivers on inter-state transmission system charges for green hydrogen production plants until 2030.

Projections suggest India could have an installed electrolyser capacity of 60GW-100GW by 2030.

Joshi affirmed the government's commitment to encouraging this sector to meet domestic demand and become a reliable global supplier.

Under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, tenders for 4.12 lakh tonnes per annum have been awarded to 10 companies, according to the minister.

The event was attended by Karnataka's Minister of Large & Medium Industries & Infrastructure Development M.B. Patil, KREDL Chairman & MLA Sringeri, T.D. Rajegowda, and MLA Doddaballapur, Dheeraj Muniraj.

(KNN Bureau)