India Advances Hydrogen Pilots in Steel, Transport, and Shipping

India Advances Hydrogen Pilots in Steel, Transport, and Shipping

March 26, 2026

The Government of India is rapidly transitioning the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) from a strategic vision into a large-scale industrial reality. In a recent update provided to the Rajya Sabha, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) confirmed the awarding of 3,000 MW per annum of electrolyser manufacturing capacity to 15 different companies. This move is designed to build a robust domestic supply chain, reducing long-term import dependence and lowering the overall cost of green hydrogen production for Indian industries. 

In addition to manufacturing, the government has awarded 0.862 million tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of green hydrogen production capacity to 18 companies. This is a critical step in catalyzing commercial-scale projects across the country. Large-scale demand aggregation has also successfully led to competitive price discovery. For instance, the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has finalized prices for supplying 0.724 MMTPA of green ammonia to 13 fertilizer units, while significant volumes of green hydrogen have been earmarked for major refineries including Indian Oil (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL). Beyond the energy and chemical sectors, the mission is pushing deep into “hard-to-abate” industries through specialized pilot projects. Five new pilots have been sanctioned for the steel sector, aimed at testing the feasibility of hydrogen-based steelmaking. Similar initiatives are underway in the transport and maritime sectors, with projects for hydrogen-fueled vehicles, refueling stations, and even a green methanol bunkering facility at V.O. Chidambaranar Port. As of early 2026, approximately 8,000 tonnes per annum of capacity has already been commissioned, setting the stage for a massive ramp-up over the next three years.