Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri have submitted a joint grant application to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish the Mid-Continent Clean Hydrogen Hub (MCH2).
Using federal funds from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the three states signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create a regional partnership around their hydrogen industries, according to a press release.
Up to $7 billion is available nationally to establish six to 10 regional clean hydrogen hubs across the country.
“Together we have an opportunity to open new markets for agriculture while strengthening our commitment to American-made renewable energy,” said Governor Kim Reynolds in a statement. “As the regions’ leading states, we understand the power of coming together to create innovative solutions that grow our economies for the future.”
The release did not say how much funding the states are asking for, and it did not state where the hub would be located. Applications to the DOE were due April 7.
The MOU states that MCH2 would include participation from Monolith Materials Inc., Project Meadowlark, VERBIO, Ideal Energy and Greenfield Nitrogen.
Ms. Reynolds’ office said the partnership will drive economic growth, develop a pathway for workforce development and training, address pipeline safety and leak minimization, address air quality impacts of hydrogen production and more.
Debi Durham told the Iowa Finance Authority Board that the DOE wanted 33 interested parties to submit a full application for the federal funding, narrowing the field from 79 initial applicants, The Gazette reported.
The three states will also finalize a collaboration agreement to determine structure and governance of the hydrogen hub.
