The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO) has launched a new web resource called “Clean Hydrogen and Environmental Justice.” This initiative highlights HFTO’s dedication to ensuring a fair and just transition to clean energy, especially for communities that have suffered from harmful energy infrastructure in the past. This effort is a key part of the U.S. National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap.
New Web Resource
The new webpage serves as a hub for HFTO’s environmental justice work and encourages input from the public. Here’s what you can find on the site:
- Community Concerns: Addressing common worries about clean hydrogen.
- Environmental Justice Principles: Information on environmental justice and the Justice40 Initiative.
- EJ Strategy: Details on HFTO’s strategy, including listening to communities, engaging with them, increasing transparency, prioritizing safety, and making funding more accessible. The strategy also emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Fellowship Opportunity
HFTO is also looking for a Hydrogen Shot Fellow to join their Environmental Justice and Community Engagement team. They are seeking candidates with experience in community engagement and environmental justice, preferably related to hydrogen or similar sectors like natural gas.
Role of the Fellow
The fellow will help integrate environmental justice and equity into all HFTO efforts. This includes supporting community benefit plans, public education, and addressing community concerns about hydrogen. The fellow will also assist with project management and community engagement, such as participating in the Harnessing Hydrogen Public Forum.
Why This Matters
This new resource and fellowship opportunity reflect the DOE’s commitment to making sure that the transition to clean hydrogen energy is fair and benefits everyone, especially those who have been most affected by past energy practices. By involving communities and addressing their concerns, HFTO aims to create a cleaner and more equitable energy future.
