Biomass-to-hydrogen technology provider Mote Hydrogen has successfully secured $7m in Series A financing to advance the development of its initial commercial-scale facility. The company's core focus lies in biomass carbon removal and storage (BiCRS), which involves the conversion of wood waste into hydrogen while simultaneously capturing CO2 permanently. This innovative approach is being hailed as a scalable solution that not only reinforces domestic energy independence but also supports forestry and land management practices. Mote's proprietary technology stands out for its ability to increase hydrogen yield and efficiencies, in addition to promoting wildlife protection and sustainable forestry management. The company sets ambitious targets, aiming to capture 450,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and generate 60,000kg of hydrogen per day. Leveraging support from entities like the US Department of Energy (DOE), CalFire, and the US Forest Service, Mote's BiCRS process stems from research conducted at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. An essential aspect of Mote's initiative is its significant potential for utilizing the ample biomass resources available in the US, estimated at up to 1.5 billion dry tonnes annually. Despite facing challenges related to economic viability, logistics, and policy uncertainties, especially concerning competitiveness with steam methane reforming (SMR), the company remains resilient. Mote's CEO, Joshuah Stolaroff, expressed confidence in the company's ability to thrive independently of government incentives, highlighting its adaptability to policy shifts and market demands. The $7m investment, led by Nella Next and Preston-Werner Ventures, signifies a crucial step in Mote's journey, forming part of a targeted $15m Series A funding round. This financial backing underscores the industry's positive reception of Mote's approach to hydrogen production. While the sector poses various challenges, Mote's innovative strategies and commitment to sustainability have positioned it as a promising contender in the realm of biomass-to-hydrogen technology.