DOE begins application process for $7B hydrogen hubs program

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has begun the application process for its $7 billion program to create regional hydrogen hubs (H2Hubs) across the country.

The H2Hub program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will be one of the largest investments in DOE history.

Hydrogen is a versatile fuel that can be produced from clean energy resources, including wind, solar, and nuclear energy. Its unique characteristics make it a strong option for decarbonizing energy-intensive heavy industry and transportation. It is an important component of President Joe Biden’s strategy to achieve a carbon-free grid by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

“These H2Hubs are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lay the foundation for the clean hydrogen future President Biden is building—one that will lift our economy, protect the planet, and improve our health,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said. “With input from America’s brightest scientists, engineers, community organizers, and entrepreneurs, this national hydrogen strategy will help us accelerate the development and deployment of technologies to realize the full potential of clean hydrogen energy for generations to come.”

For this initial funding opportunity, the DOE is looking to select six to ten hubs for a combined total of up to $7 billion in federal funding. Concept papers are due by Nov. 7, while full applications are due by April 7, 2023. Additional funding opportunities may follow to accelerate and expand the network of clean hydrogen projects. Projects funded under this program will support meaningful community and labor engagement; advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and contribute to the president’s goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities.

The DOE also released a draft of the National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap for public feedback. The roadmap provides an overview of the potential for hydrogen production, transport, storage, and use in the United States and outlines how clean hydrogen can contribute to national decarbonization and economic development goals. A final version of the roadmap will be released in the coming months.