Patna: Bihar is accelerating efforts to position itself as a centre for clean and green energy, with the state government moving to finalise its first Green Hydrogen Policy.
The Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA) has been tasked with drafting the policy, which is currently undergoing consultations with key departments including industry, agriculture and sugarcane. Officials said the proposal would be placed before the cabinet for approval once inter-departmental inputs are incorporated.
The initiative comes in line with the central government’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, under which states have been encouraged to develop their own hydrogen strategies to help make India a global hub for green hydrogen production.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the proposed policy may set a target for developing green hydrogen production capacity in the state by 2030. It is also expected to include a package of incentives aimed at attracting private investment.
Under the draft framework, new projects may be granted “white category” status, eliminating the need for investors to obtain a No Objection Certificate from the pollution control board. The state is also considering exemptions on stamp duty for land registration, concessions on electricity charges and up to 100% reimbursement of state goods and services tax (SGST).
BREDA is expected to function as a single-window system to facilitate faster approvals for green hydrogen projects.
Several states, including Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, have already introduced hydrogen policies. Bihar’s move signals its intent to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and participate in the transition to low-carbon energy.
Officials said the policy could pave the way for new industries and generate employment in technical and manufacturing sectors, while supporting the state’s longer-term goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable growth.
