The global hydrogen economy is entering an infrastructure-heavy phase where transportation networks will determine scalability. Pipelines are emerging as the most efficient mode for moving hydrogen across industrial clusters. This is driving significant investment.
The global hydrogen pipeline market is projected to grow from about USD 7.6 billion in 2025 to USD 852.1 billion by 2035. In parallel, the green hydrogen pipeline segment is expected to cross USD 51 billion by 2032. This scale of expansion highlights a clear demand for specialised steel pipes, placing manufacturers at the centre of the hydrogen transition.
India’s Domestic Demand Advantage
India already has a strong base as one of the largest hydrogen consumers globally. Demand is expected to expand significantly across refining, fertilisers, steel, and mobility. Estimates indicate that hydrogen demand in India could reach 15 to 20 million metric tonnes annually by 2030. This level of demand will require dedicated transport infrastructure, particularly as hydrogen production hubs begin to emerge across industrial corridors. Pipelines will play a critical role in connecting production to consumption centres efficiently.
Infrastructure Gaps Create Market Entry Points
One of the biggest constraints in the hydrogen economy today is the lack of transport infrastructure. Moving hydrogen remains expensive and logistically complex without pipelines. India’s existing natural gas grid offers a starting point. Parts of this network are being evaluated for hydrogen blending and eventual transition to pure hydrogen transport. This creates immediate demand for hydrogen-compatible pipes, both for retrofitting existing infrastructure and building new dedicated networks.
Advancing Technology and Manufacturing Capability
Hydrogen transport introduces specific technical challenges. Issues such as hydrogen embrittlement and material fatigue require advanced metallurgy and precision manufacturing. Indian manufacturers are responding by developing high-grade pipes designed for hydrogen applications. This includes API-grade pipes capable of handling high-pressure hydrogen transport. The ability to produce large-diameter pipes, high-frequency welded pipes, and longitudinal submerged arc welded pipes positions the industry well for upcoming requirements. In addition, specialised coatings and corrosion-resistant technologies are being integrated to meet hydrogen-specific performance standards.
Some players have also developed pipes designed for 100% hydrogen transport, reflecting a shift from conventional oil and gas applications to future energy infrastructure.
Export Potential in a Supply-Constrained World
Global hydrogen adoption is uneven, and many regions lack sufficient manufacturing capacity for pipeline infrastructure. Europe, for example, has a relatively limited hydrogen pipeline network today, leaving significant room for expansion. As countries accelerate decarbonisation efforts, demand for hydrogen-ready pipes is expected to rise faster than local supply in several markets. India’s steel pipe industry benefits from cost competitiveness and improved adherence to global standards such as API and ASME. This creates a clear opportunity to serve international hydrogen infrastructure projects.
Role of Integrated Solution Providers
Indian pipe manufacturers are increasingly offering end-to-end solutions rather than standalone products. This includes high-grade line pipes, advanced anti-corrosion coatings, and customised engineering solutions designed for hydrogen transmission and storage. Capabilities now extend across both onshore and offshore applications, aligning with the requirements of large-scale hydrogen projects. This integrated approach strengthens the industry’s positioning as a long-term infrastructure partner rather than a commodity supplier.
Challenges That Could Shape Leadership
Despite strong fundamentals, several challenges remain. Hydrogen infrastructure development is still at an early stage, with limited projects currently under construction in India. Investment decisions depend heavily on policy clarity, long-term demand visibility, and viable pricing frameworks. In addition, hydrogen pipelines require strict safety and regulatory compliance, which varies across regions and can impact deployment timelines.
The Strategic Inflexion Point
The transition to hydrogen is moving from pilot projects to industrial-scale implementation. At this stage, infrastructure becomes the defining factor. India’s steel pipe industry is well-positioned due to its manufacturing scale, growing technological capability, and proximity to a large domestic market. With continued investment and alignment with global standards, it has the potential to play a central role in enabling hydrogen transport infrastructure worldwide. The opportunity is clear. Execution will determine whether India becomes a key supplier or a global leader in the hydrogen infrastructure value chain.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own, and do not necessarily reflect those held by pv magazine.
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