Japanese team explores green energy ties with Uttar Pradesh

Japanese Delegation Strengthens Green Energy Bonds with Uttar Pradesh

A high-level delegation from Japan's Yamanashi Prefecture recently wrapped up a productive three-day visit to Uttar Pradesh, focusing on forging stronger partnerships in green energy. Led by Deputy Governor Junichi Ishidera, the eight-member group engaged in key discussions with state officials, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Additional Chief Secretary Alok Kumar. Their itinerary highlighted Uttar Pradesh's push towards sustainable energy, especially green hydrogen, amid growing global demand for clean alternatives to fossil fuels.

The visit kicked off with meetings at Invest UP, where officials explored investment opportunities across sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure, and tourism. A standout moment was the delegation's tour of a pilot green hydrogen plant site in western Uttar Pradesh, part of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority area. This project, now in commercial operation, represents a Rs 1,000 crore investment aimed at bolstering the state's green infrastructure. Such initiatives underscore Uttar Pradesh's ambition to lead in clean energy production.

Key Discussions Center on Green Hydrogen Policy and Collaboration

At the Chief Minister's residence in Lucknow, Yogi Adityanath hosted the delegation for in-depth talks on bilateral ties. The conversations revolved around implementing a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Uttar Pradesh and Yamanashi Prefecture. This agreement lays the groundwork for joint efforts in clean energy, innovation, and sustainable development.

"India-Japan relations are not merely diplomatic in nature, but are rooted in shared values such as mutual trust, discipline, innovation and sustainable development," the Chief Minister emphasized during the meeting.

Adityanath highlighted the Uttar Pradesh Green Hydrogen Policy-2024, overseen by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA). This policy fosters an investor-friendly environment, complete with incentives and clear guidelines. Plans under the policy include setting up two Centres of Excellence for green hydrogen—one at HBTU Kanpur with IIT Kanpur, and another at MMMUT Gorakhpur with IIT (BHU). These hubs will drive research, skill development, and local manufacturing, creating jobs and technological advancements. The Japanese side praised these steps and voiced keen interest in deeper involvement.

The dialogue also touched on broader renewable energy prospects, with Uttar Pradesh positioning itself as a hub for innovation. Officials from both sides agreed that green hydrogen could play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and powering industries sustainably. The pilot plant's success was celebrated as a milestone, proving the feasibility of large-scale production in the region.

Broader Horizons: Tourism, Culture, and Future Delegations

Beyond energy, the visit opened doors to collaboration in tourism and cultural exchanges, leveraging deep civilizational links between India and Japan. Topics included Buddhist heritage circuits and wellness tourism, with Uttar Pradesh offering robust infrastructure and incentives for Japanese investors and visitors. Yamanashi Prefecture aims to act as a gateway, promoting Uttar Pradesh's attractions back home.

Looking ahead, the delegation announced plans for a massive 200-member group of Japanese CEOs to visit in August 2026. This follow-up will target business, youth exchanges, and commercial ties, including trips to sites like Varanasi. Such moves signal a long-term commitment to grassroots-level partnerships, blending economic growth with cultural affinity. State ministers, including those for tourism and culture, participated actively, ensuring multifaceted progress.

These engagements reflect Uttar Pradesh's strategic vision to attract global players in green tech while nurturing people-to-people connections. As climate goals intensify worldwide, this alliance could set a model for international green energy cooperation. In summary, the visit marks a promising chapter in Indo-Japanese relations, with green hydrogen at its core, backed by policy support, infrastructure milestones, and plans for expanded exchanges.