The United States Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a significant $62m investment in 20 clean hydrogen projects across 15 states.
These projects aim to fast-track the development and deployment of clean hydrogen technologies, focusing on crucial areas like hydrogen fuelling infrastructure, hydrogen-powered port equipment, and enhancing processes for the equitable deployment of hydrogen solutions.
The selected projects include innovative efforts to ensure the benefits of clean energy reach all Americans, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to building a robust, equitable, clean hydrogen economy.
Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm emphasised the significance of the funding: “Today’s announcement builds on the historic clean hydrogen investments made possible by the Investing in America agenda and will help deliver new economic opportunities across the nation while also reinforcing America’s global leadership in clean energy technologies for generations to come.”
Key areas of focus
The DOE’s Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO) will oversee projects across five main areas:
- Hydrogen fuelling for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles: $8.5m will fund the development of advanced components for hydrogen fuelling systems tailored to medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
- Standardised hydrogen refuelling stations: $40m is dedicated to creating low-cost, replicable hydrogen refuelling stations to support commercial-scale truck fuelling.
- Hydrogen fuel cell-powered port equipment: A $2.5m project at the Port of Oakland will demonstrate hydrogen-powered equipment for port operations.
- Permitting and safety for hydrogen deployment: Seven projects will share $7m to address challenges in hydrogen infrastructure deployment, from siting to permitting.
- Equitable community engagement: Four projects, supported by $4m, will improve DOE’s engagement with disadvantaged communities and develop best practices for Community Benefits Plans (CBPs).
The advantages of clean hydrogen
Clean hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier, essential in various industries such as fertiliser production and steelmaking.
It can be produced from diverse clean energy sources, including renewables and nuclear power. Its role is crucial in decarbonising challenging sectors like heavy-duty transportation and industrial processes, as well as in long-duration energy storage.
By advancing clean hydrogen technologies, the US aims to strengthen energy independence, reduce emissions, and support economic growth. Clean hydrogen technologies are also expected to contribute significantly to job creation.
Commitment to equity in clean energy
These projects not only drive advancements in clean hydrogen technologies but also focus on equity and environmental justice.
All selected initiatives are expected to implement comprehensive Community Benefits
Plans (CBPs), ensuring that clean hydrogen development benefits all communities, particularly those historically underserved.
In alignment with the Justice40 initiative, over $14m is dedicated to community benefits, with more than 20 minority-serving institutions involved as partners.
These efforts underscore the US’ commitment to an inclusive clean energy transition, ensuring that the clean hydrogen economy delivers prosperity and sustainability for all Americans.
