- Adani Total Gas Ltd has begun blending green hydrogen with natural gas for households in Ahmedabad, aiming to cut emissions and support India’s net-zero targets.
- The company plans to gradually increase the hydrogen blend to 8% and expand supplies beyond Shantigram to other areas with city gas licenses.
Adani Total Gas Ltd, the city gas joint venture between Adani Group and French energy giant Total Energies, has initiated a groundbreaking project by blending green hydrogen with natural gas supplied to households in parts of Ahmedabad in India. This innovative step aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions and assist India in achieving its net-zero targets.
The company plans to gradually increase the proportion of green hydrogen in the natural gas mix, starting with a 5% blend and aiming for 8%. This initiative will initially focus on the Shantigram area of Ahmedabad, with plans to expand supplies to other neighbourhoods and eventually to additional regions where the company holds a city gas distribution license.
National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), a state-owned power generator, supplies households in Kawas, Surat district, with green hydrogen-blended natural gas. Additionally, GAIL (India) Ltd, the state-owned gas utility, is conducting a small pilot project in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, where compressed natural gas (CNG) is mixed with grey hydrogen.
While green hydrogen is lauded for its potential as a zero-emission fuel, it poses some challenges, mainly due to its tendency to corrode pipelines and equipment. Research indicates that blending up to 10% hydrogen with natural gas does not adversely affect existing infrastructure. However, up to 30% of modifications to the material grade and wall thickness of pipelines and equipment would be necessary for higher blends.
The introduction of hydrogen energy is pivotal in the global transition toward cleaner energy sources, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. However, one significant hurdle remains the high cost of hydrogen production, which limits its widespread adoption.
Adani Total Gas’s move marks a significant milestone for the company and reflects a broader commitment within the industry to explore and implement sustainable energy solutions. As the blending of green hydrogen progresses, it could pave the way for similar initiatives across India, bolstering the country’s efforts in the renewable energy sector and enhancing energy security.
As this innovative project unfolds, it is expected to inspire further investments in green hydrogen technology and infrastructure, potentially positioning India as a leader in the transition to cleaner energy sources.