The U.S. Department of Energy announced an investment of about $62 million in next-generation clean hydrogen technology.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced on August 30th an investment in research, development, and utilization of next-generation clean hydrogen technology.Approximately $62 million dollars.ToInvesting in 20 projects across 15 states.Announced.

The Biden administration aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with a target of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50-52% by 2030. In sectors where emission reduction is challenging, such as industrial and transportation sectors, the policy is to promote decarbonization by advancing the utilization of hydrogen. In June 2023, the "National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap" was established, and this initiative aims to promote the utilization of hydrogen in the transportation sector along the roadmap. The focus includes the development and demonstration of various equipment, as well as the consideration of mechanisms such as permits and approvals to support regional efforts. The project also emphasizes collaboration with hydrogen hubs, with many projects being selected in regions close to hydrogen hubs like the California Hydrogen Hub. Additionally, while promoting utilization, efforts are made to support energy transition in energy communities like Texas and Pennsylvania, which have been producing fossil fuels such as petroleum and natural gas, by offering hydrogen technology.

The selected projects consist of five areas. Specific project details can be found on the DOE's homepage. An overview is as follows.

-Hydrogen fuel supply components for medium and large vehicles (4 projects, $8.5 million)Developing components such as nozzles and hoses for supplying hydrogen fuel at refueling stations for medium and large vehicles.

-Standardized future hydrogen filling stations (4 projects, $40 million)Development and demonstration of low-cost, standardized expandable hydrogen stations for medium and large trucks.

-Port facilities powered by hydrogen fuel cells (1 project, $2.5 million)Conduct development and verification of hydrogen-powered top loaders (forklifts for container handling) and fuel supply trucks for these.

-Achieve permission and safety during hydrogen utilization (7 projects, $7 million).Clearly identify the challenges in terms of location, permitting, and equipment installation in the entire value chain and explore business opportunities.

-Engagement of fair hydrogen technology with regional society (4 projects, $4 million).Improving practical capabilities so that projects funded by the DOE and the department can effectively carry out community activities. DOE will deepen its understanding of concerns in underserved communities and provide crucial information on hydrogen and related technologies to those communities. In addition, enhance the 'Community Benefit Plan.'

U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm emphasized the importance of advancing hydrogen utilization, stating, "Hydrogen fuel is essential to reduce emissions from the sectors that consume the most energy and cause pollution in economic activities. Today's announcement will bring new economic opportunities to the entire United States and strengthen the country's global leadership in clean energy technology for generations to come."

(Note) When applying for subsidies based on the Infrastructure Investment Employment Act (IIJA) or the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the DOE requests the submission of documents that include plans for community involvement and contribution to employment.