Government Propels National Green Hydrogen Mission With Kochi Workshop

In pursuit of the National Green Hydrogen Mission objectives, the government recently engaged stakeholders in a comprehensive discussion on a proposed scheme, emphasizing the financing, construction, and deployment of green vessel initiatives.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), in collaboration with the World Bank and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), conducted a workshop in Kochi, Kerala, involving state government representatives and other stakeholders. The workshop's outcomes are expected to align with the net-zero emissions targets outlined in 'MIV 2030' and 'Amritkal Vision 2047.'

As part of the government's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions, this initiative supports the maritime sector's pivotal role in advancing Green Sustainable Transportation under the Prime Minister's leadership.

Furthermore, the effort contributes to the 'National Green Hydrogen Mission' and 'Harit Sagar Guidelines,' fostering a dynamic ecosystem for port development, operation, and maintenance.

The workshop drew participants from the Ministry of Port, Shipping & Waterways, state governments (Assam, Maharashtra, Goa, Odisha, Karnataka, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala), Kochi Metro Rail Ltd., and various private entities involved in water transportation.

Key stakeholders, including Cochin Shipyard Limited and the Kochi Water Metro, presented ongoing and upcoming vessels using alternative fuels such as electric, hydrogen, and methanol.

Discussions focused on the proposed scheme's financing, construction, and rollout of green vessel initiatives, emphasizing supporting infrastructure development. Green fuel alternatives were explored, with the Kochi Water Metro sharing insights into its water-based metro system, a groundbreaking project with the world's largest fleet of electric vessels.

During the event, a representative from the Government of Maharashtra expressed interest in collaborating with Kochi Water Metro and MoPSW to introduce a similar water metro system in Maharashtra.

The workshop emphasized the significance of research and development for technology stabilization and standardization. A site visit to the Kochi Water Metro and Cochin Shipyard is scheduled for December 2, 2023.