14 Oct 2023 Global Hydrogen Review 2023
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the Topic details “Green Hydrogen”. This Topic has relevance in the Science and Technology section of the UPSC CSE exam.
For Prelims:
About Green Hydrogen?
About IEA?
For Mains:
GS 3: Science and Technology
Green Hydrogen Initiatives in India?
Why in the news?
As per the 2023 Global Hydrogen Review published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), even though there is growing global political backing, green hydrogen represents a mere fraction, accounting for less than 1% of both hydrogen production and utilization worldwide.
Green Hydrogen:
- Green hydrogen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, and highly combustible gas.
- Hydrogen, as an element, is the lightest, simplest, and most abundant substance in the universe.
Production of Green Hydrogen
- Green hydrogen is generated through a process called electrolysis. It involves using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydropower to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.
- Hydrogen is not naturally found in its pure form in the environment; it typically exists in compounds, including water, biomass, and hydrocarbons.
- Various methods have been developed to extract hydrogen from these compounds. These methods can be categorized into conventional and renewable technologies based on the raw materials and energy sources used.
Green Hydrogen Initiatives in India
Paris Agreement Commitment
- Under the Paris Agreement, India is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 33-35% from the 2005 levels.
- The agreement aims to limit global warming to below 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels.
Net-Zero Economy Pledge
- At the 2021 Conference of Parties in Glasgow, India reaffirmed its commitment to transition from a fossil-dependent economy to a net-zero economy by 2070.
- This transition emphasizes reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact.
Green Hydrogen as an Alternative Fuel
- India’s government has recognized the potential of green hydrogen as a key element in achieving energy independence by 2047.
- The goal is to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and a significant hydrogen exporter.
Ambitious Non-Fossil Energy Capacity
- India has initiated the production of green hydrogen as part of its strategy to expand non-fossil energy capacity.
- The target is to achieve 500 gigawatts of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
Pioneering Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant
- In April 2022, the public sector Oil India Limited (OIL) established India’s first green hydrogen pilot plant.
- The plant, located at the Jorhat pump station in eastern Assam, produces 99.99% pure green hydrogen.
- It is powered by a 500 KW solar plant and has an initial capacity to generate 10 kg of hydrogen per day, with plans to scale production to 30 kg per day.
The International Energy Agency (IEA):
- The International Energy Agency (IEA) is an autonomous intergovernmental organization.
- It was established in 1974 by developed countries, operating under the umbrella of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
- The IEA was founded in response to the oil embargo, a pivotal event in the energy sector.
Membership and Engagement
- The IEA is composed of 30 member countries, and it also has eight associate nations.
- Additionally, four countries – Chile, Colombia, Israel, and Lithuania – are currently seeking full membership in the organization.
- India joined the IEA as an Associate member in March 2017, but it had been engaging with the IEA well before formal association.
World Energy Outlook Report
- The IEA annually releases the “World Energy Outlook” report, which is a significant publication in the energy sector.
- This report provides valuable insights and projections into global energy trends and challenges.
Main Focus Areas
- The IEA’s activities are guided by four main areas of focus:
- Energy Security: Ensuring a stable and reliable supply of energy to member and associate countries.
- Economic Development: Promoting policies and strategies that support economic growth in the energy sector.
- Environmental Awareness: Advocating for environmentally sustainable energy practices and technologies.
- Global Engagement: Collaborating with nations and organizations worldwide to address energy-related challenges on a global scale.
Download Yojna daily current affairs eng med 14th Oct 2023
Q.1 Consider the following statements about the International Energy Agency (IEA):
- The IEA releases the “World Energy Outlook” report
- It operates as an autonomous intergovernmental organization under the United Nations.
- India is a full member of the IEA.
How many of the above statement/s is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
ANSWER: A
Q.2 Consider the following statements about Green Hydrogen:
- It is considered green when produced using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power through a process called electrolysis.
- Green Hydrogen is primarily used for electricity generation and is not suitable for other applications.
- India has recently become the largest global producer of Green Hydrogen.
How many of the above statement/s is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
ANSWER: A
Q.3 Green Hydrogen is gaining global attention as a key element in the transition towards a sustainable energy future. Analyze the potential of Green Hydrogen in mitigating India’s energy and environmental challenges.
No Comments