CII Conference in Mumbai focuses on India’s green hydrogen revolution

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organised a conference titled "Navigating the Green Hydrogen Revolution" on 10th October 2024 in Mumbai, focusing on the theme of "Catalyzing India's Clean Energy Future." During the event, Arun Mahesh Babu, Managing Director of Gujarat Power Corporation Limited, discussed Gujarat's goal to produce 3 MMTPA of green hydrogen by 2030.

As part of this effort, the Government of Gujarat introduced a policy in 2023 for leasing government wasteland for green hydrogen production, with 2.62 lakh hectares of land in Kutch and Banaskantha allocated for this purpose.

Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, targetted the importance of green hydrogen in promoting a sustainable energy future, noting that India is well-positioned to lead this transition. Avaada Group is investing in advanced technologies to support the decarbonisation of key sectors, with green hydrogen expected to accelerate India's energy transition and strengthen its energy security.

Kapil Maheshwari, Managing Director and CEO of Welspun New Energy Limited, highlighted the opportunities presented by green hydrogen and Welspun's focus on innovation and partnerships to scale up production. He pointed out that with proper policy support, India could become a global leader in green hydrogen, driving both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Swati Salgaocar, Chairperson of the CII Western Regional Council, noted that India is at a pivotal point in its energy transition, with green hydrogen playing a crucial role. She focused the importance of strong policy frameworks, public-private partnerships, and innovation in positioning India as a leader in green hydrogen production by 2030, contributing to economic growth and energy independence.

Ajay Sambrani, Chairman of the CII WR Sub-Committee on Energy & Sustainability and Managing Director of Tubacex Service Solutions India Pvt Ltd, discussed Maharashtra's potential to benefit from green hydrogen, particularly in its automotive sector. He mentioned that the development of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles could help reduce pollution in cities like Mumbai and Pune.

In the valedictory session, P Anbalagan, Chairman and Managing Director of Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Limited (MahaGenco), outlined various green hydrogen projects in the state. He highlighted a 50 KTPA green hydrogen and derivative plant being developed at MahaGenco's gas-based power project in Uran, Raigad district, which will create 1,635 jobs.