Virginia Tech has secured a $1.3 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to lead research on converting natural gas into turquoise hydrogen in Southwest Virginia. The project aims to establish a hydrogen innovation hub to revolutionize energy and hydrogen production industries. By utilizing catalytic methane decomposition, the team intends to produce cleaner hydrogen and solid carbon without emitting carbon dioxide, thus contributing to sustainable energy solutions. This initiative seeks to leverage the region's abundant natural gas resources, including the Marcellus Shale and the Appalachian Basin. Led by Sheima Khatib, the project also focuses on workforce development, economic growth, and community engagement in the Appalachian region. Collaborations with academic and industrial partners, like Shepherd Chemical Company, aim to evaluate the economic potential of the technology and ensure its commercial viability. Additionally, efforts led by Amy Price Azano will focus on enhancing energy literacy and developing sustainable energy educational modules for rural communities, aligning with local educational resources and specific needs. The project envisions a future where natural gas is efficiently transformed into high-value, environmentally friendly products, benefiting both the economy and the environment.