Organised by: GH2 India, NSEFI and Hydrogen Europe  

Brussels, November 19, 2024 – The EU-India High-Level Roundtable on Green Hydrogen, held during EU Hydrogen Week 2024, served as a dynamic platform to strengthen partnerships between India and the European Union in the green hydrogen sector. This strategic dialogue brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders, and research stakeholders to explore opportunities for advancing green hydrogen production, trade, and infrastructure.  

The event featured prominent leaders from both regions, including representatives from India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the European Commission, Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), and top industry stakeholders and associations such as ACME, Adani, Accelera, Amgreen, Avaada, Bosch, Gasunie, Gentari, GH2 India, Hydrogen Europe, Hygenco, Linde, RWE, Rely Solutions, ReNew, Smart Energy, Sunfire and Snam. 

Shared Vision for a Green Future 

A recurring theme during the discussions was the shared commitment to decarbonization. Both India and the EU emphasized the importance of green hydrogen as a cornerstone of their climate goals. While the EU pursues its ambitious decarbonization timeline, India is steadfast in achieving its 5 MMT green hydrogen production target by 2030. Leaders recognized that mutual collaboration could propel these goals forward, leveraging India’s cost-efficient production capabilities and the EU’s demand for clean energy. 

Synergies in Production and Market Creation 

India’s abundant renewable energy resources make it an attractive partner for green hydrogen production. Projects across the country, particularly in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha, are poised to supply hydrogen derivatives like green ammonia to international markets. Industry representatives highlighted India’s competitive edge in producing low-cost green hydrogen, citing abundant solar and wind energy, favorable policies, and accelerating project development. 

European stakeholders, meanwhile, stressed the critical role of the EU as a demand center. The region’s decarbonization agenda creates an immediate market for green hydrogen derivatives in industries such as shipping, steel, and chemicals. Notably, the EU’s regulatory incentives and mandates for renewable energy adoption have sparked optimism about long-term demand. 

Bridging Challenges: Trade, Certification, and Regulation 

Harmonizing regulations to ensure seamless international trade of green hydrogen and its derivatives remains a priority. Many called for pragmatic approaches to regulatory barriers, particularly in areas such as carbon pricing, certification, and additionality requirements for renewable energy sourcing. 

The roundtable also addressed logistical hurdles in developing cross-border infrastructure for transportation and storage. Ports like Antwerp-Bruges and Rotterdam were highlighted as pivotal hubs for integrating hydrogen supply chains between the two regions.  

Technological and Financial Collaboration 

A central focus of the discussions was technology sharing and co-development. European companies, recognized for their advanced hydrogen technologies such as electrolyzers, saw opportunities to collaborate with India’s manufacturing base to lower costs and drive scalability. Indian firms expressed eagerness to partner with European stakeholders in research and development, including port infrastructure and cracking technologies. 

Financing green hydrogen projects emerged as a critical area for cooperation. Innovative models such as joint tenders, green financing, and public-private partnerships were explored to address the cost gap between conventional and green hydrogen. These initiatives aim to reduce costs, improve investor confidence, and expedite the commercialization of hydrogen technologies. 

Workforce Development and Skills Exchange 

Recognizing the nascent state of the hydrogen economy, both regions underscored the importance of building a skilled workforce. Knowledge-sharing initiatives and joint training programs were proposed to address skill gaps and ensure a steady talent pipeline to support the sector's growth.  

As both regions intensify their green hydrogen strategies, the roundtable highlighted the path forward: clear regulatory frameworks, technology and infrastructure investments, and innovative financing mechanisms. By aligning efforts, the EU and India have the potential to lead the world in green hydrogen adoption and accelerate the transition to a sustainable future.