India has officially introduced a green hydrogen certification scheme aimed at promoting transparency, traceability, and credibility in the production of green hydrogen. Launched on 29 April, 2025 by Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, the initiative sets a formal framework for certifying green hydrogen and its derivatives, positioning India to meet both domestic and global demand for clean fuel.
The certification scheme is currently applicable to companies that have successfully bid for government incentives under various green hydrogen production programmes. However, it notably excludes exporters who have not availed themselves of such incentives. This distinction suggests a phased approach in implementation, possibly leaving room for future inclusion of broader stakeholders.
Under the framework, the materiality threshold for any emission source involved in green hydrogen production is set at one percent of the total emission threshold, aligning with the standards laid out in India’s green hydrogen guidelines. This ensures that all significant emission contributions are accounted for during the certification process, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the scheme.
Producers can source renewable electricity for hydrogen production from either dedicated or common transmission lines, increasing flexibility in project planning and operational execution. This measure ensures accessibility to renewable power while accommodating various infrastructural constraints across regions. The move supports the country’s larger National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to make India a global hub for the production, utilisation, and export of green hydrogen.