Green Hydrogen Blending Can Reduce India’s Gas and Fuel Import Dependence: Pralhad Joshi – EQ
In Short : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that blending green hydrogen with conventional fuels can significantly reduce India’s dependence on imported natural gas and fossil fuels. The initiative supports the National Green Hydrogen Mission and promotes domestic clean fuel production. Green hydrogen blending across industries, refining, and mobility sectors is expected to enhance energy security while accelerating decarbonisation efforts nationwide.
In Detail : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted that blending green hydrogen with conventional fuels can play a crucial role in reducing India’s reliance on imported natural gas and petroleum products. He emphasized that domestic production and utilisation of green hydrogen will strengthen energy security while supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable fuel sources. The initiative aligns with India’s broader decarbonisation and self-reliance objectives.
Green hydrogen blending involves mixing hydrogen produced using renewable energy with existing fuels such as natural gas. This blended fuel can be used in industrial processes, refineries, power generation, and transportation without requiring major infrastructure overhaul. Such an approach enables gradual adoption of hydrogen while leveraging existing pipeline networks and fuel distribution systems.
Blending hydrogen with natural gas in city gas distribution networks is considered a practical early application. Even small blending ratios can reduce overall carbon emissions and decrease consumption of imported gas. This strategy allows utilities to test hydrogen integration while maintaining operational stability and ensuring reliable supply to consumers.
Industrial sectors such as fertilisers, refineries, and steel can also benefit from hydrogen blending. These industries currently rely heavily on fossil fuel-based feedstocks. Introducing green hydrogen into their fuel mix helps lower emissions while reducing exposure to global fuel price volatility. The transition also supports compliance with emerging decarbonisation targets.
Green hydrogen blending in mobility applications is another area of focus. Hydrogen-enriched fuels can be used in heavy-duty transport, buses, and long-haul vehicles. This helps reduce diesel consumption and supports cleaner transportation solutions. Pilot projects and demonstration initiatives are expected to accelerate adoption across transport corridors.
The initiative also supports development of domestic hydrogen production capacity. Increased demand for blending will encourage investment in electrolysers, renewable energy projects, and storage infrastructure. Building this ecosystem is essential for scaling hydrogen deployment and achieving cost competitiveness over time.
From an energy security perspective, hydrogen blending reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels. India imports a large share of its natural gas and crude oil requirements, exposing the economy to geopolitical risks and price fluctuations. Domestic hydrogen production provides an alternative pathway to diversify the energy mix.
Policy support under the National Green Hydrogen Mission is expected to accelerate blending initiatives. Government programs aim to encourage pilot projects, infrastructure development, and industry participation. These measures will help establish technical standards and operational frameworks for safe and efficient hydrogen blending.
Overall, green hydrogen blending represents a practical pathway for India to reduce fuel imports while advancing clean energy goals. By leveraging existing infrastructure and gradually increasing hydrogen share, the country can enhance energy security, lower emissions, and create a scalable market for green hydrogen across multiple sectors.
