Source: ECONOMICTIMES

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Context

In line with India’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 green hydrogen is viewed as a crucial component for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors like steel, cement, fertilizers and heavy transport.

The Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India is a major regulatory step under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to ensure transparency, credibility and international acceptance of green hydrogen produced in India.

Objectives of the GHCI

To define and standardize what qualifies as Green Hydrogen in India.

To build a credible market for green hydrogen by establishing traceability and accountability.

To enable carbon credit access and promote India's export competitiveness in the green hydrogen economy.

To align Indian green hydrogen production standards with global norms such as ISO 19870:2023.

Features of the Scheme

Definition of Green Hydrogen

Hydrogen is considered green if non-biogenic GHG emissions ≤ 2 kg CO₂e/kg of hydrogen over a 12-month average.

This includes emissions from entire lifecycle stages (generation, conversion, and storage) excluding biogenic sources.

Eligible Production Pathways

Electrolysis of water using renewable electricity (solar, wind, hydro).

Biomass conversion methods (excluding fossil-based feedstocks).

Certification Process – 4 Types of Certificates

Final Certificates are issued in multiples of 100 kg and contain full details of emission intensity and production pathway.

Accredited Carbon Verification (ACV) Agencies

Producers must appoint BEE-recognized third-party auditors to ensure independent emissions verification.

Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Framework

Producers must:

Maintain detailed records for at least 5 years.

Monitor energy sources, emission data and hydrogen output using standardized tools.

Submit periodic reports for audit.

Ensures transparency, data integrity and prevents greenwashing.

Compliance, Penalties, and Fees

Nominal fee applicable only for final certification. 

Non-compliance may lead to:

Withdrawal of certificate

Ineligibility for government incentives

Disqualification from future certification cycles

International Alignment & Market Benefits

Aligned with ISO 19870:2023 for global comparability.

Enables access to Carbon Credit Trading Scheme and international green energy trade.

Enhances investor confidence, especially for export-oriented producers.

Significance of GHCI

For India’s Climate Goals

Supports decarbonization in industrial and transport sectors.

Builds credibility for India’s carbon-neutral energy exports.

For the Industry

Offers a regulatory roadmap for producers, investors and auditors.

Helps India emerge as a global hub for green hydrogen by 2030.

For International Trade

Certification acts as a passport for Indian green hydrogen in global markets where green credentials are mandatory e.g., EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

Sources:

ECONOMICTIMES