The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) unveiled a $750 million investment spread across 52 projects spanning 24 states, aimed at driving down the costs of clean hydrogen and reinforcing America's position in the expanding clean hydrogen sector. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these projects are designed to advance electrolysis technologies and improve manufacturing capabilities. In addition, these investments - totalling $1.6 billion in total (including cost sharing among beneficiaries) - will directly produce an estimated 1,500 new jobs, along with thousands of additional jobs generated indirectly through the resulting economic activity. and create more than 1,500 new jobs.

This announcement aligns with President Biden’s commitment to the Investing in America agenda, aiming to propel the nation towards clean energy leadership. By supporting projects outlined in the U.S. National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap, the administration seeks to achieve significant milestones in hydrogen technology, including the production capacity of 14 gigawatts of fuel cells annually and 10 gigawatts of electrolyzers per year.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is propelling an American-led clean hydrogen economy that is delivering good-paying, high-quality jobs and accelerating a manufacturing renaissance in communities across America,” said?U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “The projects announced today—funded by the President’s Investing in America agenda—will supercharge our progress and ensure our leadership in clean hydrogen will be felt across the nation for generations to come.” 

Clean hydrogen holds promise in reducing emissions across critical sectors such as heavy-duty transportation and industrial processes. By bolstering domestic manufacturing capacity, these projects aim to facilitate the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, creating economic opportunities while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

The investments, managed by DOE’s Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO), mark the initial phase of implementing provisions from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. They encompass a range of initiatives, from low-cost electrolyzer manufacturing to the development of advanced fuel cell assemblies and stacks. 

In addition to driving technological advancements, these investments emphasize the administration's commitment to equity and inclusion. Through the Justice40 Initiative, the projects aim to support workforce development, energy equity, and diversity, particularly in disadvantaged communities.

While selection for award negotiations does not guarantee funding, these initiatives underscore the Biden-Harris Administration's comprehensive approach to tackling the climate crisis and fostering a clean and equitable energy landscape for all Americans.