Green Hydrogen: A Key Solution for Combatting Climate Change
Key Ideas
- The global carbon emissions hit a record high in 2024, breaching the 1.5°C target, signaling the urgency for intensified climate change mitigation efforts.
- Decarbonising the economy through transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy sources like green hydrogen is crucial for combating climate change.
- Green hydrogen, generated from water using renewable energy sources, is deemed the cleanest form of hydrogen and can significantly contribute to achieving net-zero emissions.
- India's National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to promote green hydrogen as a clean energy source by raising awareness and incentivizing its adoption.
In 2024, global carbon emissions from fossil fuels reached a record high, leading to a temporary breach of the 1.5°C target set to mitigate climate change. This breach serves as a warning of irreversible climate change if immediate action is not taken. Decarbonising the economy by transitioning from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy sources is essential to address the primary driver of global warming. The slow pace of the green energy transition can be accelerated with the adoption of green hydrogen technology. Green hydrogen, produced from water using renewable energy sources, is considered the cleanest form of hydrogen and can serve as a clean fuel for various industries and processes. India has initiated the National Green Hydrogen Mission to promote green hydrogen and achieve its net-zero emissions target. To enhance awareness and adoption of green hydrogen, stakeholders need clarity on the differences between grey and green hydrogen. Public understanding, media campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and government incentives are crucial for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen and combating climate change. Efforts to make green hydrogen production more efficient and its installation carefully planned are imperative as the window to act on climate change is closing. Green hydrogen, along with other renewable energy options, must be utilized to transition away from fossil fuels for a sustainable future.