California has received the initial $30m payment from the US Department of Energy (DOE) as part of the federal funding allocated for the development of its regional clean hydrogen hub, known as the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES) hub. This funding comes after California was chosen to receive a total of $1.2bn for the H2Hub project back in October. The agreement between ARCHES and the DOE amounts to $12.6bn and is dedicated to constructing the hub. In addition to the $1.2bn from the DOE, ARCHES has reported that $11.4bn in combined public and private funds have been pledged to facilitate the establishment and expansion of clean energy infrastructure throughout the state. The funding will play a crucial role in advancing the development of clean hydrogen systems within California, contributing to the state's efforts in promoting sustainable and renewable energy sources.