Official UPSC Format

Which of the following statements with regard to Green Hydrogen is/are correct ?
1. It is decarbonized hydrogen obtained from natural gas reforming combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS).
2. It is produced using electrolysis of water with electricity generated by renewable energy.
3. National Green Hydrogen Mission of India aims for abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Select the answer using the code given below :

1. It is decarbonized hydrogen obtained from natural gas reforming combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS).

2. It is produced using electrolysis of water with electricity generated by renewable energy.

3. National Green Hydrogen Mission of India aims for abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

⚡ Quick Recall Snippet

Green Hydrogen is a zero-emission fuel produced by splitting water via electrolysis using 100% renewable electricity. Conversely, Blue Hydrogen is derived from fossil fuels combined with carbon capture. India's National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to abate 50 MMT of greenhouse gas emissions annually by 2030.

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Detailed Solution & Authority Citations

Correct Answer is Option B
Let us clarify the terminology and targets under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) guidelines:
  • Statement 1 is Incorrect: This statement provides the exact technical definition for Blue Hydrogen. Blue hydrogen is extracted from fossil fuels (natural gas via steam methane reforming), and the resulting carbon dioxide emissions are trapped using Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) tech. It is not "Green" hydrogen.

  • Statement 2 is Correct: Green Hydrogen is the gold standard for clean fuel. It is produced by splitting water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen through a process called electrolysis. Crucially, the electricity powering this electrolyser must be generated entirely from renewable energy sources (solar, wind), resulting in a zero-emission lifecycle.

  • Statement 3 is Correct: The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a flagship decarbonization initiative. One of its quantified, stated targets is to build a production capacity of 5 MMT per annum, which will directly lead to the abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
    • Conclusion: Statements 2 and 3 are factually accurate.

    🚨 The Examiner's Trap

    The examiner mixes the definitions of the 'Hydrogen Color Spectrum'. Statement 1 provides the exact textbook definition for 'Blue' Hydrogen to trap candidates who recognize the eco-friendly sound of 'Carbon Capture' and falsely equate it with 'Green'.

    Active Recall Flashcard

    Tap to Flip

    What is the primary difference in the production method between Green Hydrogen and Blue Hydrogen?

    Green Hydrogen uses water electrolysis powered by renewable energy, whereas Blue Hydrogen extracts hydrogen from natural gas while capturing the carbon emissions.

    Concept Flow Mapping

    Green Hydrogen
    Produced By
    Electrolysis of Water
    Electrolysis
    Powered By
    Renewable Energy
    National Green Hydrogen Mission
    Targets
    50 MMT GHG Abatement

    Logic Quest

    "Why is 'Blue' Hydrogen considered a transitional fuel rather than the final solution?"

    Not analyzing core concepts like Transition to Decarbonized Energy Systems through the lens of Previous Year Questions is a serious miss-out. This PYQ engine is specifically designed to help you decode the examiner's mindset and master highly probable Environment & Ecology questions for your upcoming Prelims.