Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub Receives $925 Million for Clean Energy Development
Key Ideas
- The Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2) has secured a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy to receive $925 million in federal funding for the development of a clean hydrogen hub in Appalachia.
- This initiative aims to create a clean hydrogen ecosystem, generate well-paying jobs, and revitalize local communities in Appalachia through environmental, economic, and social benefits.
- The program will focus on producing clean hydrogen to decarbonize sectors like manufacturing and transportation, ensuring job training for local workers, and directing program benefits to marginalized communities.
- ARCH2's project partners include industry leaders such as Air Liquide, CNX Resources Corp., and Plug Power, with management led by organizations like Battelle and GTI Energy.
The Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2) in Morgantown, W. Va., has signed a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations to receive up to $925 million in federal funding. This partnership aims to spearhead the development of a clean hydrogen hub in Appalachia, with the potential to unlock billions of dollars in private sector investments and create numerous well-paying jobs in the region. The ARCH2 initiative was selected as one of seven hubs nationwide for the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program, focusing on establishing regional clusters of clean hydrogen producers and consumers to build a national clean hydrogen network. The project, spanning over a decade in four phases, will initially receive $30 million for Phase 1, commencing in July 2024. The remaining federal funds will be released as the hub achieves specific milestones set by the DOE. ARCH2's objectives include producing clean hydrogen to decarbonize industries like manufacturing and transportation, generating new employment opportunities, and ensuring that 40 percent of the program benefits reach disadvantaged communities. The project partners, including Air Liquide, CNX Resources Corp., and Plug Power, will collaborate to create a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem within Appalachia. For further details and community engagement, ARCH2 will provide information through upcoming webinars. This innovative endeavor not only focuses on environmental sustainability and economic growth but also emphasizes social equity by supporting marginalized communities in the region.