The US Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) has announced $87.5 million in funding for the initial phase of three hydrogen hubs.
This is part of a $1.2 billion cost-sharing initiative to develop regional clean hydrogen hubs (H2Hubs). The announcement marks the beginning of a significant investment in renewable and clean energy projects across the United States.
California Hydrogen Hub
OCED has allocated $30 million to the California hydrogen hub, led by the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (Arches). This public-private partnership aims to create a sustainable, clean hydrogen market by 2030. The project involves utilizing wind power and other renewable energy sources to increase hydrogen production by 30 tons per day to over 500 tons by 2032. The hydrogen will primarily serve the ports, power, and heavy-duty transport sectors, focusing on expanding hydrogen fuel-cell heavy transport along the West Coast.
Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub
The Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Association (PNWH2) received $27.5 million from OCED. This project will develop the region’s hydrogen hub using its existing renewable energy resources, including large hydroelectric dams. Phase 1 will last one year and involve planning and analysis to ensure technological and financial feasibility.
Appalachian Hydrogen Hub
OCED has also awarded $30 million to the Appalachian hydrogen hub, led by Battelle. Unlike the other two hubs, this project will leverage the region’s low-cost natural gas instead of renewable energy. The initial phase will last up to 36 months and focus on planning, analysis, and design activities.
