MNRE Invites Second Round Of Proposals To Boost Green Hydrogen Testing Infrastructure Under ₹200 Crore Scheme
Source： solarquarter
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has issued the second call for proposals under the scheme for funding testing facilities, infrastructure, and institutional support for developing standards and a regulatory framework under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Launched on January 4, 2023, with a budget of ₹19,744 crore, the mission aims to make India a global hub for the production, use, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. The scheme, notified on July 4, 2024, has an allocation of ₹200 crore for 2024–26 to address gaps in existing testing facilities, create new infrastructure, upgrade current facilities, and ensure the safe operation of equipment in the green hydrogen value chain. It also seeks to encourage both public and private sector participation in building world-class testing capabilities in India.
The first round of proposals was invited in August 2024, and five proposals were supported after evaluation. The second round focuses on developing and upgrading infrastructure for testing components, technologies, and processes in green hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization. It also includes technology mapping, quality assurance, and the creation of centers of excellence. Facilities set up under the scheme must be accessible to all potential users and not be captive units.
Eligible applicants include government organizations, R&D institutes, academic institutions, PSUs, and autonomous bodies. In consortium proposals, a lead agency will act as the executing agency, which must have the necessary accreditations and capabilities. Funding will cover up to 100% of the capital cost for government entities’ equipment, installation, and commissioning. Consortia with private partners are also encouraged, with the private sector expected to contribute technically and financially. Operational expenses of up to 15% of total support may be covered over four years. Land and building costs are excluded. Disbursement will be in stages: 20% on award, 40% after 25% project completion, 30% after 75% completion, and 10% on completion.
Projects must be completed within 18 months for new facilities and 12 months for upgrades, with possible extensions. Delays beyond six months require ministerial approval and may attract a penalty. The scheme will be monitored by a steering committee and a project appraisal committee, which will also recommend proposals for approval. Proposals must be submitted in hard copy to the National Institute of Solar Energy, Gurugram, by 4:30 PM on September 10, 2025, with an online stakeholder meeting scheduled for August 19, 2025.
Applicants must provide detailed documentation, including project reports, organizational credentials, manpower details, financial statements, equipment lists, and cost estimates. Evaluation criteria will consider experience, land/building availability, financial commitment, equipment readiness, accreditations, manpower, and existing hydrogen testing capabilities. The scheme also outlines provisions for intellectual property rights, requiring joint ownership between contributors, royalty-free licenses for the government, and possible transfer of rights in the national interest.