India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Plant Begins Operation in Gujarat

India enters hydrogen era with indigenous technology

India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Plant Begins Operation in Gujarat: India has achieved a major milestone in its clean energy journey with the commissioning of the country’s first indigenous 1MW green hydrogen plant at Kandla port in Gujarat. This marks a significant advancement in the nation’s efforts toward sustainable development and green port infrastructure.

A pioneering initiative by Deendayal Port Authority

The plant has been developed by the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) and was inaugurated by Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. It is the first such facility at any Indian port, symbolizing India’s capability in deploying homegrown green hydrogen solutions. The project was completed in just four months.

Static GK fact: Kandla Port, now officially named Deendayal Port, is one of the largest ports in India by cargo volume.

Powered by Make in India electrolyzer

The electrolyzer, a key component of the hydrogen production process, was indigenously manufactured, making this project a full-fledged Make in India achievement. It aligns with the broader goal of reducing import dependency in the clean energy sector.

Supporting clean mobility within port

In the initial phase, green hydrogen from the plant will power 11 buses and support street lighting within the port area. Eventually, its usage will be expanded to include tugs, port vehicles, and even vessels, drastically reducing the port’s carbon emissions.

Roadmap to a 10MW green hydrogen facility

This 1MW unit is only the beginning. An additional 5MW capacity is scheduled by the end of FY 2025–26, with the full 10MW facility targeted for mid-2026. Once fully operational, the plant will produce approximately 140 metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually.

Static GK Tip: Hydrogen is considered a zero-emission fuel when produced using renewable sources such as solar and wind.

Strategic shift towards maritime decarbonization

The DPA project is a model example of maritime decarbonization, crucial for India’s climate goals. Hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in ships, trucks, and industrial boilers, reducing dependency on diesel and coal.

Static GK fact: India launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023, aiming to make the country a global hub for green hydrogen production and export.

Government’s commitment to energy transition

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of this project on May 26, 2025, in Bhuj, showcasing the Centre’s priority on accelerating green infrastructure. The Union Government views the Kandla plant as a benchmark project for future hydrogen rollouts across Indian ports.

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