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MNRE Issues Second Call for Proposals to Strengthen Hydrogen Testing Infrastructure

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released the second call for proposals (CfP) under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) to fund hydrogen testing facilities, infrastructure, and institutional support for developing standards and regulations. Proposals must be submitted by September 10, 2025. The first CfP was launched in August 2024.

Eligible applicants include government organizations such as testing agencies, R&D institutes, academic institutions, PSUs, and autonomous bodies. Proposals can also come from government–private consortia, with a lead agency responsible for execution. All entities must hold relevant accreditations or incorporate hydrogen testing into their mandate within one month of grant approval. The developed facilities must remain open to all users and not operate as captive units.

The scheme offers up to 100?ntral Financial Assistance (CFA) for government entities and the government partner in consortia, with private partners contributing financially or technically. Up to 15% of support may cover operational costs for four years after completion. Funding excludes land and building costs and is disbursed in stages—20% on award, 40% at 25% completion, 30% at 75% completion, and 10?ter project completion.

New facilities must be completed within 18 months, and upgrades within 12 months, with limited extensions allowed. Delays beyond the approved period attract a 1% penalty. Evaluation gives 70% weight to technical criteria and 30% to the Project Appraisal Committee (PAC) review.

The program runs until 2026 with a Rs2 billion outlay, aiming to close gaps in hydrogen testing across the value chain and ensure safety, quality, and performance compliance. The NGHM, launched on January 4, 2023, has a budget of Rs197.44 billion to make India a global leader in green hydrogen production and exports.