by Matthew Choi (Politico’s Morning Energy) Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Cornyn (R-Tex.) are introducing a trifecta of legislation, dubbed the Hydrogen Infrastructure Initiative, to bolster hydrogen deployment and support new infrastructure, particularly in hard-to-decarbonize sectors like shipping and heavy industry. Two of the bills would create new grant programs to build out hydrogen-powered equipment in ports and to support large-scale demonstration projects for hydrogen in industries such as cement, steel and glass.
The third bill would create a Department of Energy loan and low-interest grant program for hydrogen transport infrastructure with priority for projects that create jobs and don’t damage disadvantaged communities. Hydrogen infrastructure faces challenges including high initial capital costs and less energy per unit volume relative to existing liquid fuels. The Hydrogen Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act is modeled off of the similarly named Transportation and Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation acts. It would also launch a study on hydrogen transport and storage, with an assessment of jurisdiction over siting, construction, safety and regulation of transport infrastructure.
“Hydrogen deployment in emissions-intensive sectors, such as steel production and shipping, offers the potential to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, all while maintaining energy and economic security,” Coons said in a statement.
“Hydrogen is a versatile energy source, but we lack the infrastructure to reap its benefits for a wide range of industries,” Cornyn said in a statement. “This legislation would help make hydrogen more accessible and cost-effective so businesses and consumers can utilize this reliable energy resource.” Read the bill text for the shipping measure here, the heavy industry measure here and HIFIA here. READ MORE