New Delhi, March 7 (NationPress) On Saturday, the government introduced the standards for Green Ammonia and Green Methanol, establishing defined emission thresholds and eligibility criteria for production reliant on renewable hydrogen.

This initiative, released by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on February 27, seeks to standardize and certify ammonia and methanol produced with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the MNRE, these standards will provide essential clarity to industries, investors, and other stakeholders involved in the advancement of green hydrogen derivatives.

In adherence to the new regulations, the production of Green Ammonia should not exceed total non-biogenic greenhouse gas emissions of 0.38 kg CO₂ equivalent per kg of ammonia, averaged over the last 12 months.

Similarly, the allowable emissions for Green Methanol production are capped at 0.44 kg CO₂ equivalent per kg, with emissions from biogenic sources, Direct Air Capture (DAC), or existing industrial streams permitted, as stated by the ministry.

The government also mentioned that the MNRE may periodically update the eligible sources of carbon dioxide, with these updates taking effect prospectively along with suitable grandfathering provisions.

The standards specify that renewable energy for production can consist of electricity stored in energy systems or banked with the grid. Comprehensive methodologies for measurement, reporting, monitoring, verification, and certification will be released separately by the MNRE.

Prior tenders or bids issued before this notification may proceed under existing terms; however, procuring entities can opt to align with the new standards by mutual agreement.

“Any tender, bid process, or solicitation issued before the notification date may continue to be governed by the prevailing terms; nonetheless, the procuring entity may, where feasible and with mutual consent, adapt such tenders to align with the new provisions,” the government noted.

The MNRE emphasized that this initiative enhances clarity for industries and investors, facilitating the decarbonization of fertilizers, shipping, power, and heavy industries, thereby bolstering India’s status as a dependable producer and exporter of green fuels.

“Indian developers of Green Hydrogen are eyeing export markets for Green Ammonia and Green Methanol. With this notification, India further solidifies its regulatory framework for green hydrogen and its derivatives under the National Green Hydrogen Mission,” it added.