Advancements in Clean Hydrogen Tax Policy and Emissions Value Requests
Key Ideas
  • The Department of the Treasury is expected to finalize proposed rules for the Section 45V clean hydrogen production tax credit by the end of the year, with adjustments to aid industry growth.
  • The Department of Energy has opened its emissions value request process for clean hydrogen producers, requiring an individualized 'emissions value' to qualify for Section 45V.
  • Clean hydrogen developers seek to reduce emissions and costs through the 45V tax credit, challenging the dominance of emissions-intensive 'grey' hydrogen in the U.S. market.
  • DOE's emissions value request process includes requirements like completing a Front-End Engineering and Design study and submitting an AACE Class 3 Cost Estimate for project maturity indication.
The Department of the Treasury is expected to finalize proposed rules for the Section 45V clean hydrogen production tax credit to aid industry growth. Stakeholder feedback on the December 2023 proposed regulations highlighted the need for adjustments and additional flexibilities, particularly in addressing 'significant indirect emissions' from hydrogen production. Simultaneously, the Department of Energy has initiated the emissions value request process for clean hydrogen producers, essential for those whose production methods fall outside DOE's predefined hydrogen production pathways. The process necessitates obtaining an individualized 'emissions value' from DOE to qualify for Section 45V, with requirements including a Front-End Engineering and Design study and submission of an AACE Class 3 Cost Estimate. This move comes as developers in the U.S. aim to shift away from emissions-intensive 'grey' hydrogen towards cleaner alternatives, leveraging the tax credit to reduce costs and emissions. While details on the timeline and prioritization of applications remain uncertain, the focus on advancing clean hydrogen production and reducing lifecycle emissions is evident. The evolution of clean hydrogen tax policy and emissions value determination mechanisms indicates a positive step towards fostering a more sustainable energy market and industry growth.
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