The Solar Energy Corporation of India (Seci) has officially launched a tender for the supply of 500,000 tonnes of green methanol per annum as part of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM). This mission, overseen by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), aims to promote green hydrogen and its derivatives to decarbonize the shipping and industrial sectors. The tender, which opened on Wednesday, will remain active until June 8, when bids will be evaluated. Seci will host a pre-bid meeting next week to clarify any queries from potential bidders.

The SIGHT programme has a financial outlay of ₹17,490 crore (approximately $2.1 billion USD) and includes two incentive mechanisms to bolster domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and green hydrogen production. Companies wishing to apply for incentives must set up production facilities for green methanol, ensuring that the production and supply are conducted in line with the guidelines established by MNRE. The Green Methanol Purchase Agreement (GMPA) will last for 10 years, with incentives available for a period of three years from the commencement of production. This initiative is pivotal as green methanol can serve as a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels, significantly impacting the transport and energy sectors.