India's Green Hydrogen Leap: Net Zero by 2047?

Director General Abhay Bakre of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) stated that achieving net zero across all sectors is vital for environmental harmony. He emphasized India's potential to produce green fuel economically due to its abundant sunshine and water resources, calling the net zero target practical for the nation.

Bakre outlined that sectors like buildings, educational campuses, industries, and transport hubs can transition to solar, wind, and biomass energy. The BEE has issued guidelines for net zero buildings, with its own office serving as an example. He identified green hydrogen as the next frontier for replacing fossil fuels.

Initiatives such as blending green hydrogen with natural gas for domestic cooking are in pilot phases. Scaling up technologies and investment are seen as key to generating jobs, reducing fossil fuel imports, and enhancing India's energy security. India's solar installed capacity has already surpassed 130 gigawatts.

Karnataka, under its chairman T D Raje Gowda, has significantly increased its wind power capacity, securing first place nationally for additions in FY 2024-25. This effort supports India's broader commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. The state is also planning infrastructure projects to ease traffic congestion.