From 19th to 25th November 2023, the European Union Delegation organized a Green Hydrogen Study Tour for Government of India officials, covering Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. The delegation included officials from various Indian ministries and departments, such as the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Ministry of Steel, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, NITI Aayog, Department of Science and Technology, and the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited.
The tour aimed to deepen understanding and foster collaboration on green hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and consumption. It provided a platform for knowledge exchange between Indian officials and key EU stakeholders, including the European Commission, European Investment Bank, policymakers, industries, research institutions, and infrastructure facilitators.
The delegation visited ArcelorMittal’s steel production facility in Dunkirk, France, to discuss green hydrogen in steel manufacturing. In Belgium, they met with Dr. Ruud Kempener, representatives from the European Commission and European Investment Bank, and attended European Hydrogen Week 2023. In the Netherlands, the delegation visited the Port of Rotterdam and engaged with port authorities and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. In Germany, they visited DVGW in Bonn, the H2 Centre in Herten, and Linde’s hydrogen refueling station in Cologne.
Key learnings included the importance of implementing pilot projects to address technological and operational challenges before scaling up green hydrogen production. Securing concessional financing is crucial to making green hydrogen affordable and encouraging its adoption. Establishing robust standards and certifications is necessary for the safe handling and usage of green hydrogen, aiding both domestic use and exports. Continued international collaboration between Indian and EU stakeholders is valuable for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and joint initiatives. Forming a working group of participating officials will help maintain momentum, facilitate regular discussions, and advance green hydrogen development in India.