The Department of Energy (DOE) has reached an agreement with the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH 2). The public-private consortium will construct a hydrogen hub in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. The agreement is part of the $7 billion hydrogen funding from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. ARCH 2 will receive up to $925 million.
Initial $30 Million Unlocked for Planning and Siting
The agreement frees up $30 million for planning and siting 11 projects by 12 companies. The initial planning phase is expected to take up to 36 months. Companies like CNX and EQT plan to use hydrogen for:
- Fueling buses and trucks
- Producing aviation fuel and ammonia
- Powering plants and data centers
- Heating homes
Hydrogen as a Potential Climate Solution
Hydrogen is a potential climate solution due to its carbon-neutral combustion process. However, producing hydrogen from fossil fuels generates significant carbon pollution. ARCH 2 companies will produce hydrogen from natural gas and store the carbon dioxide underground.
Akshaya Jha from Carnegie Mellon University sees the hub as a test for using hydrogen to address climate change. He hopes these projects lead to more affordable initiatives in the future.
Environmental Concerns and Criticisms
Environmental groups have raised concerns about the hub’s lack of transparency and potential environmental and health impacts. More than four dozen groups petitioned the DOE to make more information public.
Alison L. Steele from the Environmental Health Project believes the government hasn’t considered the long-term public health consequences. Studies link living near fracking sites to increased health risks.
Sean O’Leary from the Ohio River Valley Institute notes that fracking areas have experienced less growth compared to averages. This is despite the increase in gross domestic product in some parts of Appalachia.
Looking Ahead
Despite concerns, Jha believes the DOE’s investment in the hydrogen hub is worthwhile. He thinks it’s exciting to deploy it at a relatively small scale. This will help determine if hydrogen could be a viable energy resource.
ARCH 2 will host a community meeting on August 16 to discuss the project and address public concerns.
Read more: US DOE Invests $33M in Solar-Based Hydrogen Projects
