The University of Kansas has been chosen as one of 52 projects by the Department of Energy to lead a program aimed at reducing the cost of clean hydrogen production. The initiative, funded with $750 million and spanning across 24 states, includes a project involving KU and startup Avium, established by researchers at KU's School of Engineering. Avium was formed in 2017 following the discovery of new catalysts that enhance the efficiency of green hydrogen production. Green hydrogen is a critical component in the global efforts to cut down carbon emissions, being produced using renewable energy sources unlike conventional hydrogen production methods that emit greenhouse gases. Professor Kevin Leonard, a member of KU’s Center for Environmental Beneficial Catalysis and Avium's chief science officer, emphasized the significance of green hydrogen as a commodity chemical with various industrial applications. The project at KU and Avium aims to develop innovative catalysts and technology to advance green hydrogen production methods, potentially benefitting sectors beyond those currently relying on hydrogen. One key aspect highlighted is the role of green hydrogen in creating sustainable aviation fuels, which could lead to environmentally friendly alternatives in the aviation industry. Leonard underlined the potential of green hydrogen in traditional applications like fertilizers, cement, and metal processing, as well as its promising future in emerging sectors. The collaboration between KU and Avium signifies a step towards enhancing the efficiency and environmental impact of hydrogen production, aligning with the global interest in green hydrogen technologies.