India is on an ambitious path to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, with the government and industry sectors aligning to meet this crucial target. At the forefront of this transition is Honeywell, contributing through cutting-edge technologies in energy storage, hydrogen, and biofuels. As one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters, India’s progress in decarbonizing its energy and industrial sectors will be critical in achieving global climate goals.
Honeywell’s recent report, `India’s Path to Net Zero’, outlines key challenges and technological solutions necessary for this monumental shift.
Key Highlights from Honeywell’s Report
Honeywell’s report underscores the need for India to focus on sectors that contribute to 90% of its GHG emissions: power, industrial, agriculture, and transport. With emissions projected to reach 12 Gt CO₂ equivalent in the coming decades, India’s energy transition must accelerate rapidly, requiring significant investment in emerging technologies. The report also highlights three primary areas of focus: energy storage, hydrogen adoption, and alternative fuel production.
Energy Storage as a Cornerstone
Energy storage technologies like Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are critical to India’s success in harnessing renewable power. BESS systems help store renewable energy, ensuring continuous power supply, and facilitate the phase-out of diesel generators—currently a major source of emissions. Honeywell has been a key player in this domain, having successfully delivered India’s first on-grid solar project using BESS technology for the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) in Lakshadweep.
“BESS is an essential enabler for energy security and grid reliability in India,” noted Honeywell’s report. The company calls for India to achieve 50% non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030, aligning with global efforts to scale up BESS capacity. The report advocates for a combined global commitment of 5 GW of BESS by 2024.
Hydrogen: Unlocking Industrial Decarbonization
Hydrogen, especially green hydrogen, is seen as the next frontier for reducing emissions in industrial sectors. Honeywell’s report emphasizes the need for policy interventions to unlock hydrogen’s potential in India, particularly in refineries and fertilizer production. The report suggests mandating a 50% green hydrogen blending requirement for these industries by 2030.
Honeywell is actively developing Catalyst-Coated Membranes (CCM) to lower the cost of green hydrogen production, in line with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission. “Green hydrogen will be key in reducing reliance on fossil fuels for hard-to-abate sectors,” said the report, stressing the need for special industrial zones powered by renewable energy to boost adoption.
Accelerating Biofuel Production
India’s National Biofuel Policy offers significant opportunities for the country to shift from its reliance on fossil fuels. Honeywell’s report calls for expanding biofuel blending targets and strengthening infrastructure to support these fuels. India’s vast agricultural resources make it an ideal candidate for producing biofuels, including biogas from agricultural waste, fats, oils, and greases.
“Honeywell has the technology to convert waste materials into biofuels, aligning with India’s goal to reduce fossil fuel dependency while tapping into the country’s vast biomass resources,” said the report. These innovations support India’s efforts to achieve 50% renewable energy by 2030 and contribute to both domestic needs and export opportunities.
Honeywell’s Technological Contributions
Honeywell’s commitment to India’s climate goals extends beyond energy storage and hydrogen. The company is involved in several groundbreaking projects aimed at boosting sustainability across various sectors:
Green Hydrogen Plant Control: The company’s plant-wide control and optimization systems reduce production costs while improving efficiency in green hydrogen production.
Bio-Compostable Solutions: Research is going on bio-compostable materials, with a focus on reducing environmental impacts in critical industries like medical and automotive packaging.
Smart Cities: The company’s digital solutions support India’s transformation into smart, sustainable cities, enhancing economic growth and reducing environmental footprints.
Carbon Capture: Carbon capture solutions are being developed and are tailored to various industrial needs, helping sectors meet emission reduction targets.
A Path Forward
These technologies are vital to ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for India, as the nation embarks on one of the most ambitious energy transitions globally.
From: financialexpress
Financial News
