This report “Gateway to Green: Assessing port readiness for green hydrogen transition in India” by RMI highlights insights and strategic actions for advancing green hydrogen infrastructure at key Indian ports — Deendayal, VOC, Paradip, Cochin, Mumbai, and JNPA — positioning them as green hydrogen hubs to meet domestic and international demands.
Leveraging existing infrastructure, including ammonia storage facilities and LNG terminals, provides a foundation for initial hydrogen and ammonia operations. Ports like Cochin, Deendayal, and JNPA, which have electricity distribution licenses, can develop the substations and power systems required for large-scale electrolysis, integrating renewable energy more effectively.
Pipeline retrofitting for hydrogen blending is viable up to 23.5%, though blending beyond 20% may increase capital expenditures, emphasising the importance of targeted infrastructure upgrades. Repurposing LNG terminals offers a cost-effective approach; with much of the infrastructure in place, minor adjustments could enable ammonia exports. For instance, converting the Mundra terminal could save ₹20,669 crore (US$2.37 billion), and the Chhara terminal $3.33 billion, making repurposing a financially prudent alternative to new infrastructure.
In addition to existing infrastructure, new infrastructure, particularly expanded greenfield ammonia storage, will be essential to developing hubs and supporting growing demand. Economies of scale reduce storage costs significantly up to 1.0–1.5 Mt/y, with marginal returns beyond this size. Efficient use of storage facilities can offset rising electricity costs, supporting a sustainable scale-up as demand increases.
Indian ports like Deendayal and VOC benefit from proximity to low-cost renewable energy, supporting competitive export to Asian markets. Additionally, the ports of Deendayal, Cochin, Mumbai, and JNPA are well positioned for green ammonia exports to European markets, enhancing their international competitiveness. Securing land parcels near ports will support green hydrogen development and industrial growth. Aggregating domestic and international demand for green hydrogen derivatives will foster early market adoption and provide a consistent demand base for both local supply and exports.
Access the report here
