Union Minister of India Explores Green Hydrogen Integration in Iron and Steel Sector for Decarbonization

New Delhi, Amaravati Today: Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister, Shri R. K. Singh, presided over a meeting in New Delhi on January 24, 2024, to discuss pilot projects under the National Green Hydrogen Mission within the iron and steel sector. The meeting included government officials, representatives from the Ministry of Steel, and industry stakeholders from the Iron & Steel sector.

Shri R. K. Singh emphasized the government's commitment to energy transition and its significance for the iron and steel industry. He highlighted the potential of Green Hydrogen in the steelmaking process to reduce carbon emissions, promoting the sector's decarbonization. The Minister noted that adopting Green Hydrogen is crucial for the industry's competitiveness, especially in the face of trade barriers erected by developed countries.

He urged the use of available funds from the National Green Hydrogen Mission to develop technology for integrating hydrogen into steel production. Some manufacturers have already started experimenting with Green Hydrogen in the steel sector. The meeting aimed to identify avenues for channeling funds to accelerate this transition through a transparent selection process, addressing technology gaps.

Industry representatives discussed challenges in conducting trials, and the possibility of consortium-based projects was explored. Shri R. K. Singh emphasized the need to identify the right technology and pathways for decarbonizing the steel sector. He also stated that additional funds could be allocated if required, in addition to the Rs. 455 Crores already allocated for the steel sector under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.