Barriers for adoption of green hydrogen in Indian transportation sector: A fuzzy ISM approach

The adoption of green hydrogen in India’s transportation sector represents a promising solution to the country’s energy challenges. However, various barriers hinder its large-scale implementation. This paper employs a fuzzy Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach to identify and analyze the barriers affecting green hydrogen adoption. The Structural Self-Interaction Matrix (SSIM) and Initial Fuzzy Reachability Matrix (IFRM) were used to assess direct relationships between barriers, while level partitioning and the final fuzzy reachability matrix provided a hierarchical structure. The fuzzy digraph visually mapped the relationships, and a cluster of barriers diagram identified clusters based on driving power and dependence. Key barriers, such as “Technological Immaturity,” “Inadequate Regulatory Frameworks,” and “Policy Inconsistencies,” were identified as foundational challenges. Resolving these barriers will yield substantial positive effects across the network, streamlining progress in adopting green hydrogen in India’s transportation sector. The analysis offers a strategic pathway for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize interventions for this clean energy technology.