To further the advancement of clean, renewable energy production in the Commonwealth, Virginia Energy is offering up to $1,000,000 through four planning grants of $250,000. The federally funded program, administered through the Virginia Clean Energy Innovation Bank, aims to attract hydrogen production in the Southwestern Part of Virginia. Projects should identify approaches to establish the production of blue and green hydrogen.
The program targets sites previously used as coal mining sites. This is due to their “access to abundant water, natural gas and on-site rail,” all of which are ideal in order to foster a hydrogen production hub. Establishing hubs in the Southwestern region would bring increased economic development for disadvantaged and rural communities, defined by Justice40 criteria, through efforts such as increased job opportunities. This would assist populations historically affected by the coal industry by presenting the benefits and relief of a clean, sustainable future not only in their communities, but for all in the Commonwealth.
Project proposals should be submitted by January 31, 2025. For more about the Hydrogen Hub project, view Virginia Energy’s announcement. To learn more about hydrogen in transportation, visit our webpage here.