Maine and Rhode Island have joined a New York-Led multi-agency consortium to propose a regional clean hydrogen hub, ahead of an $8 billion funding round from the US government.
The two states are the latest to join the consortium which now includes six states and more than 60 hydrogen ecosystem partners.
Now, the consortium will develop a proposal to become one of at least four regional clean hydrogen hubs designated through the federal Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program.
The plans come ahead of a United States Department of Energy funding opportunity set to be announced in September or October this year – where money is being made available to deploy the hydrogen hubs.
New York is leading the consortium, and has been adding strategic partners that now include 14 private sector industry leaders, 12 utilities, 20 hydrogen technology original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), 10 universities, seven non-profits, five other states, two transportation companies and three state agencies.
The city is continuing to engage with states and entities who are interested in joining the consortium.
Consortium partners have committed to collaborate with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), New York Power Authority (NYPA), and Empire State Development (ESD) on proposal development to advance clean hydrogen projects.
Partnering states will also coordinate with their respective state entities to help align the consortium’s efforts with each state’s climate and clean energy goals.
“New York is pleased to welcome Maine and Rhode Island to this diverse and dynamic group of partners as we continue our work to develop and implement a vision for a regional clean hydrogen hub that advances our shared climate goals,” governor of New York Kathy Hochul, said.
“Building a robust and connected clean hydrogen market across the northeast will provide a game-changing clean energy alternative that will transform our ability to meet our shared climate goals while advancing 21st century innovation and stimulating strong economic growth throughout the region.”