In India’s quest for a sustainable future, green hydrogen has emerged as a revolutionary energy source that has provided a zero-carbon fuel for industries, power generation, and mobility sector. Avaada Group is pioneering the use of green hydrogen to drive India’s clean energy transition. But how green hydrogen is actually converted to electricity? Let’s find out in this blog.
Understanding Green Hydrogen
Green hydrogen is achieved by splitting water (H₂O) into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) through the process of electrolysis, using renewable energy such as solar and wind. Green hydrogen acts as a clean carrier of energy, with uses in several industries that range from power generation to transportation and industrial production.
Converting Green Hydrogen to Electricity
Green hydrogen can be converted into electricity through the following methods:
Fuel Cells:
Fuel cells are the most effective means of converting hydrogen into electricity. A fuel cell functions by means of an electrochemical reaction in which hydrogen is combined with oxygen from the air to produce electricity, with only heat and water as the byproducts.
Combustion in Gas Turbines and Engines
Green hydrogen can also be used as a direct fuel in modified gas turbines and internal combustion engines to generate electricity. This method allows for:
- Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Power plants can blend hydrogen with natural gas in existing turbines to reduce carbon emissions.
- Scalability for Large-Scale Power Generation: Hydrogen combustion in power plants can provide grid stability and backup power for renewable energy systems.
Hydrogen-Powered Generators
Portable and fixed hydrogen generators can offer backup power in off-grid areas or peak demand. The generators employ fuel cell technology to offer clean and efficient power.
Benefits of Using Green Hydrogen for Electricity
The process of converting green hydrogen into electricity has the following advantages:
- Zero Carbon Emissions: Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity without releasing greenhouse gases, making the environment cleaner.
- Efficient Energy Storage: Hydrogen makes a great medium for storing excess renewable energy, which can be converted back to electricity when needed.
- Stable Power Supply: Hydrogen power generation has the capability to deliver stable electricity, lessening reliance on fossil fuels and preventing grid instabilities due to variable renewable supplies.
Role of Green Hydrogen in India's Energy Transition
India is making significant strides in green hydrogen, with multiple projects aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Being a pioneer in India’s renewable energy industry, Avaada Group is dedicated to transforming the energy sector through mass-scale green hydrogen production and its application in power systems.
Learn about Green Hydrogen in Transportation: Fueling the Future of Clean Mobility
Avaada Group’s Contribution to Odisha's Green Energy Shift
Avaada Group has entered into an agreement with GRIDCO under the OERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations, 2023. The company is entitled to avail a Green Power Banking Facility for 300 MW for its new 0.5 MTPA Green Ammonia Plant at Gopalpur, Ganjam. The facility will be operational for 25 years from end-2028.
This project is in line with Odisha’s ambitious vision to be a green hydrogen and ammonia production leader. The state has already sanctioned 14 Green Hydrogen and Ammonia projects, with an investment of around ₹2 lakh crores, creating 22,000 jobs.
Why is Odisha Suitable for Green Hydrogen Production?
Odisha has emerged as a green energy hub because of the following reasons:
- Plentiful Renewable Energy Sources: The state has immense solar and wind energy resources to drive electrolysis for hydrogen production.
- Established Infrastructure: Established industrial facilities, ports, and logistics infrastructure enable smooth storage and transportation of green hydrogen and ammonia.
- Government Support: The state provides supportive policies and incentives to encourage investment in renewable energy initiatives.
Explore our blog on What are the industrial applications of Green hydrogen?
Future Prospects: Green Hydrogen's Role in India's Energy Independence
India’s current target is significantly higher, aiming to achieve 500 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2030, requiring a much larger investment than USD 20 billion. Green hydrogen will be a key enabler in curbing carbon emissions in major sectors like fertilizers, steel, and oil refineries. Moreover, the commissioning of a solar manufacturing facility will further increase self-reliance in the production of renewable energy.
With the progress in electrolysis and fuel cell technologies, green hydrogen is on the verge of becoming a mass solution for clean power generation. Avaada Group is leading this revolution, making sure that India moves towards a sustainable, zero-carbon energy future.
