Kerala is swiftly establishing itself as a frontrunner in India’s green hydrogen landscape. With a bold vision to become a major hub for green hydrogen production and export, the state is investing heavily in sustainable energy innovation. Through strategic partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and focused public-sector involvement, Kerala’s green hydrogen mission is poised to deliver transformative economic and environmental outcomes.
A Bold Vision for Global Green Hydrogen Leadership
At the heart of Kerala’s strategy is the ambition to become a key player in the global green hydrogen market. With abundant renewable resources at its disposal, the state is exploring large-scale production and the feasibility of exporting green hydrogen to high-demand markets such as Europe, Norway, and the United States. This vision positions Kerala not only as a domestic pioneer but also as a reliable international supplier of clean energy.
Harnessing the Power of Public-Sector Enterprises
A core pillar of Kerala’s green hydrogen mission is leveraging its public-sector undertakings (PSUs) to lead by example. Institutions such as Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL), Cochin Shipyard, and Cochin International Airport Ltd. (CIAL) are being integrated into the initiative to promote the adoption of green hydrogen across diverse industrial sectors. This approach ensures widespread implementation and paves the way for traditional energy models to shift toward sustainability.
Key Institutional Framework: HVIC-Kerala and ANERT
Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster – Kerala (HVIC-Kerala)
To coordinate the multifaceted elements of its green hydrogen strategy, Kerala has established the Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster – Kerala (HVIC-Kerala), a non-profit entity registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013. HVIC-Kerala will serve as the central platform for managing project implementation, stakeholder engagement, and funding utilization.
Leadership by ANERT
The Agency for Non-conventional Energy and Rural Technology (ANERT) serves as the nodal agency driving Kerala’s green hydrogen ambitions. ANERT’s experience in renewable energy development ensures that the state’s green hydrogen projects are built on a strong foundation of research, innovation, and practical execution.
National Recognition and Strategic Collaboration with DST
Kerala’s efforts have garnered national attention, with the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, selecting the project for financial support, one of only four such selections out of 70 proposals. This collaboration provides vital technical expertise and funding support, further validating the state’s leadership role in the green hydrogen space.
Building a Localized Hydrogen Ecosystem
The initiative’s primary objective is to develop a state-wide network of green hydrogen projects. This includes the creation of localized hydrogen ecosystems that encompass production, storage, distribution, and end-use across sectors. By fostering an integrated approach, Kerala aims to establish a self-sustaining model that reduces dependence on fossil fuels and accelerates the energy transition.
Economic Investment and Impact
With an estimated investment of ₹133 crore, the project is expected to yield substantial returns:
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Job Creation: New employment opportunities across manufacturing, R&D, operations, and maintenance.
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Industrial Modernization: Revitalization of PSUs through adoption of clean energy practices.
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Export Revenue: Entry into the global green hydrogen market will unlock new revenue streams for the state.
Governance and Oversight
The governance of the green hydrogen initiative is structured to ensure transparency, efficiency, and strategic oversight. The board includes representatives from:
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ANERT
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Department of Science and Technology (DST)
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Kerala State Government
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Industry Stakeholders
This multidisciplinary team will oversee planning, execution, and evaluation of project milestones.
Technological Advancement and Innovation
Kerala’s green hydrogen movement is rooted in a long-term strategic vision that emphasizes innovation. Through ongoing R&D and deployment of cutting-edge technologies, the initiative aims to:
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Improve production efficiency
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Reduce costs
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Enhance the sustainability of hydrogen energy
This forward-looking approach strengthens Kerala’s role as a national and global leader in clean energy innovation.
Environmental and Socio-Economic Impact
Environmental Benefits
The transition to green hydrogen represents a significant step in combating climate change. The project will:
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Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
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Decrease dependence on fossil fuels
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Improve air quality and public health
Socio-Economic Upliftment
Beyond environmental benefits, the project will catalyze inclusive growth by:
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Generating skilled and semi-skilled jobs
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Promoting sustainable industrial development
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Attracting green investment to Kerala
Future Prospects and Public Engagement
Kerala’s green hydrogen journey is not confined to government action—it’s a collaborative movement. As the project scales, there will be numerous opportunities for stakeholders, researchers, entrepreneurs, and citizens to engage with and benefit from this transformative initiative.
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Conclusion: Pioneering a Green Energy Future
Kerala’s foray into green hydrogen represents a landmark initiative in India’s clean energy transformation. With strong institutional backing, strategic public-sector integration, and international export ambitions, the state is creating a model for others to emulate. The formation of HVIC-Kerala, the leadership of ANERT, and the support of the DST all contribute to a resilient and scalable framework.
As global demand for clean energy surges, Kerala is not just keeping pace—it’s leading the charge. Its green hydrogen journey is a beacon of hope and innovation, proving that sustainable development and economic growth can go hand in hand.
