Category: Press Release

$22.2 million in initial federal funding will support a 12–18-month planning and development phase

CHICAGO – Today, the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) officially announced the signing of a cooperative agreement with the DOE’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) for Phase 1 award status, ushering in the next generation of clean energy and clean manufacturing across the Midwest, powered by clean hydrogen. MachH2 is part of the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs) Program managed by OCED. As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, OCED selected seven H2Hubs across the country to begin Phase 1 award negotiations for up to $7 billion in funding across the four phases, one of the largest investments in jobs and clean manufacturing in American history.

As part of MachH2’s Phase 1 award status, the hub will receive $22.2 million in initial federal funding. Phase 1 is expected to last between 12 to 18 months and is anticipated to include planning, design, development, and community and labor engagement activities. Projects participating in the hub are expected to produce over 1,000 metric tons per day (MTPD) of clean hydrogen at scale. These plans and the viability of certain projects are subject to, among other considerations, guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department regarding eligibility for the clean hydrogen production tax credit under Section 45V of the U.S. Tax Code.

“Federal investment in hydrogen hubs represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to significantly reduce emissions from hard-to-decarbonize industries, create new clean energy jobs, clean our air, and invest in historically overburdened communities,” said Dr. Dorothy Davidson, CEO of MachH2. “By moving into Phase 1 with $22.2 million in federal funding, MachH2 will help accelerate the clean hydrogen economy and we are looking forward to working with communities throughout the Midwest to deliver the benefits of the clean energy future. We are also appreciative to the DOE for its commitment to ensuring there is a robust clean hydrogen marketplace ready to meet the demand.”

MachH2 represents a network of clean hydrogen production, distribution, and consumption sites across the Midwest – including in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Michigan – that will leverage diverse and abundant energy sources, including nuclear energy, natural gas with carbon capture, and renewable energy. The hub comprises eight projects led by nine subrecipients: Air Liquide; BP; Constellation Energy; GTI Energy; Invenergy; Mass Transportation Authority-Flint; Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; Midwest Hydrogen Corridor Coalition; and Nicor Energy Ventures Company (NEV), an affiliate of Nicor Gas. During Phase 1, MachH2 will determine project locations across the region, including the potential to expand into additional Midwestern states.

“Since I became Governor, I’ve been focused on propelling Illinois forward into a clean energy future — ushering in a new era of environmental justice and sustainability for every community. Through the advancement of the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen, we are entering a partnership that will build on our record of accomplishment here at home and throughout the Midwest,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. “The development of a robust clean hydrogen economy, a key component of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, represents the decisive action that is necessary to curb the devastating effects of climate change. Our fleet of always-on nuclear power plants in Illinois is helping to power our economic growth with clean energy today and positions us to be a leader in the clean hydrogen future. With this milestone, the entire country is one step closer to realizing cleaner energy and cleaner industry than ever before. I am thankful to the Department of Energy and our MachH2 partners for their collaboration on this effort and I look forward to continuing my administration’s support for the hub’s success.”

“Today marks another giant leap for Indiana and the entire Midwest. We enjoy a long, proud history of manufacturing and transportation – which also happens to be the life blood of America. With these new resources we will continue to lead the nation through our shared commitments to job creation, economic investment and innovation,” said Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. “I‘m proud to join other heartland states as a member of MachH2. Today’s Phase 1 award announcement brings our hydrogen hub one step closer to generating thousands of local, family-sustaining careers well into the future.”

“I look forward to continuing Governor Holcomb’s success in creating jobs for hardworking Hoosiers in industries where Indiana excels, and leading the way in critical technologies of the future,” said Indiana Governor-elect Mike Braun. “The hydrogen hub offers the opportunity to grow our national economy, and I look forward to working with other hub leaders across the Midwest.”

“Michigan is leading the nation and the world by reducing emissions and building the future of cars, chips, and clean energy,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Today’s partnership between MachH2 and the DOE will help us grow Michigan’s economy, meet our climate goals, and uplift families in every corner of Michigan. I am thrilled to see how this announcement will make a difference for communities across Michigan and bring down $1 billion in federal investment. Let’s keep working together to show the world that Michigan is the best place to build a cleaner, greener future.” 

As part of the cooperative agreement with OCED, MachH2 has committed to a community benefits package that aims to mitigate potential impacts of this project and encourage a more equitable distribution of energy system benefits across the region, including by generating an anticipated 12,000 jobs in construction and permanent operations over the project’s lifetime with family-supporting wages, enabling new job training and educational opportunities, providing long-term career pathways in the Hydrogen and clean energy industry, and stimulating local and regional economic development.

MachH2, alongside HyVelocity Hub, are the fourth and fifth H2Hubs to sign cooperative agreements with the DOE and progress to Phase 1, joining ARCHES from California, PNWH2 from the Pacific Northwest, and ARCH2 from the Appalachian region.

###

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions. The hub is comprised of eight projects led by nine subrecipients: Air Liquide; BP; Constellation Energy; GTI Energy; Invenergy; Mass Transportation Authority-Flint; Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; Midwest Hydrogen Corridor Coalition; and Nicor Energy Ventures Company (NEV), an affiliate of Northern Illinois Gas Company (Nicor Gas). Learn more at MachH2.com.

About DOE: The mission of the Energy Department is to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions. Learn more at energy.gov.

Dr. Dorothy Davidson (center) receiving the Synergy Award alongside Elizabeth Kocs (left) and Holly Coghill (right).

Dr. Davidson and a cohort of women leaders of MachH2 are changing the landscape of clean hydrogen and the energy sector, creating opportunities for women in an historically male-dominated field.

 CHICAGO (May 3, 2024) — The Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) has been recognized by the Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST) for promoting women in STEM and its leadership in changing the landscape of the energy sector, an historically male-dominated field. At a ceremony last night at C2ST’s annual Science in the City Gala, Dr. Dorothy Davidson, CEO of MachH2, accepted the esteemed Synergy Award, which celebrates individuals whose innovative contributions drive progress at the intersection of science, technology, and society. Davidson is an accomplished and innovative senior executive well known for her success in developing and implementing successful growth strategies in the U.S. nuclear energy industry. 

In addition to Davidson serving as its chief executive officer, MachH2 is led by a strong cohort of women, including Colleen Wright, Chief Strategy Officer; Dr. Elizabeth Kocs, Equity Justice Officer; Jennifer Dunn, Chief Decarbonization Officer; and Holly Coghill, President and CEO of The Document Laboratory, a woman-owned small business subcontractor to MachH2. Four of the six members of the leadership team in MachH2 are women. 

“We are honored to receive this award. There is no way this happens without collaboration, and we are working together with more than 75 institutions in the region, including many who are here tonight,” said Dr. Davidson. “We really are breaking new ground and we look forward to making the Midwest the leader in clean energy.” 

 “The MachH2 hub will produce tens of thousands of metric tons of hydrogen per year, with plans to grow over time as it develops a clean hydrogen economy,” said Jay Walsh, Board Chair of C2ST, who presented the award. “Its partners have a shared commitment to a positive climate impact and decarbonization, safety, training, and workforce development. This includes a specific focus on historically disadvantaged communities.” 

In October, MachH2 was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) to develop an H2Hub and is currently in contract negotiations. Under Davidson’s guidance, the organization has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives to accelerate the production and adoption of clean hydrogen as a low-carbon fuel source. MachH2 will deliver significant regional benefits including high-quality jobs, improved air quality, public health improvements, and economic development. 

C2ST honors outstanding organizations and individuals who have had a great impact in the Chicagoland STEM ecosystem. More information about its Science in the City gala can be viewed here and past awardees can be viewed here. 

---

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions. MachH2 was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) to develop a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (H2Hub) in October of 2023. Learn more at MachH2.com. 

About The Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST): The Chicago Council on Science and Technology’s (C2ST) is a non-profit raising awareness about science & tech issues crucial to our community through free/low-cost events in Chicago. It aims to reignite an excitement and passion for science and technology by collaborating with national laboratories, leading academic institutions, and museums. C2ST advocates for the scientific community and provides opportunities for public learning and discussions in the Chicagoland area. 

Narrowly proposed 45V guidance will have significant impact on H2Hubs projects throughout the country; MachH2 also issued its own specific recommendations to revise the draft guidance

(February 26, 2024) — Today, the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) announced it has signed a letter with all seven regional clean hydrogen hubs (H2Hubs) urging the U.S. Department of Treasury to revise its proposed hydrogen production tax credit (45V) guidance. MachH2 also submitted specific recommendations to revise the guidance in a separate, independently issued letter. Both letters were submitted formally as comments through the Internal Revenue Service’s public comment docket.

A full copy of the joint H2Hubs letter can be viewed here. A full copy of MachH2’s letter with recommendations to revise the guidance can be viewed here.

“Each of our hubs has a range of ambitious projects aimed at accelerating the clean hydrogen industry, fostering economic growth, creating good-paying American jobs, and advancing environmental justice,” the joint H2Hubs letter states. “Unfortunately, these investments and jobs will not fully materialize unless Treasury’s guidance in its current form is significantly revised, as many of the projects generating these investments and supporting jobs will no longer be economically viable. We strongly urge the U.S. Treasury Department to reconsider and revise its proposed guidance on the hydrogen production tax credit.”

MachH2’s letter echoed that sentiment.

“A rapid transition to clean hydrogen is vital for America meeting its goal of net zero emissions by 2050,” writes Dr. Dorothy Davidson, MachH2’s Chief Executive Officer. “Achieving this, however, hinges on robust, flexible, and technology-neutral tax credit guidance. If implemented as written, Treasury’s guidance will severely impact the viability of several of our hub projects and result in the cancellation of our nuclear hydrogen production project. It will also threaten the associated benefits to bringing flexible and affordable clean energy and improving the environmental quality in our local communities,” writes Davidson.

MachH2 anticipates creating more than 10,000 clean energy jobs. MachH2’s projects are also estimated to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 3.9 million metric tons per year – equivalent to removing emissions from more than 867,000 gasoline powered cars annually[1].

MachH2 wants to adjust the guidance so that projects can provide a liftoff to the hydrogen market and a long-term path to hard-to-decarbonize emissions.  
“It is imperative that Treasury’s final 45V regulations support the success of the MachH2 hub and expand opportunities to address and accelerate projects that will decarbonize our economies now and into the future,” said Davidson.

---

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions. MachH2 was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) to develop a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (H2Hub) in October of 2023. Learn more at MachH2.com.

MachH2 is leading the clean hydrogen industry to deliver high-quality jobs, improved air quality, public health improvements, and economic development to the Midwest

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 8, 2024) —The Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) is excited to announce its participation in the highly anticipated CES 2024 event in Las Vegas this week. MachH2 is set to showcase its cutting-edge clean hydrogen hub and contribute to the discourse surrounding the future of sustainable energy.

“CES 2024 is one of the most powerful tech events in the world and the perfect venue for a whole range of industries to connect and expand on the promise of clean energy – especially clean hydrogen,” said Neil Banwart, Chief Integration Officer, MachH2. “When made with clean energy, hydrogen is an essential resource for reducing emissions from multiple difficult-to-decarbonize sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, aviation, agriculture, and long-haul transportation, among others. That’s why our hub is here in Las Vegas. We are eager to engage with industry leaders across a range of sectors at CES, allowing us to expand the work of our hub and scale the production, distribution, and consumption of clean hydrogen.” 

Event Details:

• Date: January 9-12
• Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST
• Location: CES 2024, Las Vegas
• Booth Number: Exhibit Space #5901, LVCC West Hall 

Discover the Future of Clean Energy: Attendees are invited to visit MachH2’s booth to explore the world of clean hydrogen and learn about the latest advancements in hydrogen technology. From sustainable fuel solutions to groundbreaking innovations, MachH2 is committed to driving positive change in the clean hydrogen industry and helping meet our nation’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Engage with Industry Experts: MachH2 experts will be on hand to engage with visitors, providing a window into our hub’s work and the pivotal role of hydrogen in shaping a clean energy future. Whether you’re a seasoned industry professional or a curious enthusiast, MachH2 welcomes all attendees to join the conversation and learn about the transformative potential of clean hydrogen.

Connect with MachH2: Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #MachH2 to stay updated on the latest news on our hub and insights from the CES 2024 event. MachH2 looks forward to fostering connections with individuals, organizations, and industry leaders who share a common vision for a more sustainable tomorrow.

Made up of more than 70 public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain, MachH2 members are united in a shared vision to create an immediately scalable hydrogen hub in the Midwest that deploys the region’s abundant carbon-free and low-carbon energy to create a clean hydrogen economy and reduce emissions across multiple heavy emitting sectors. A list of alliance members is available here.

MachH2 was selected in October 2023 as one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) seven clean hydrogen hubs. The hub anticipates the award negotiation period with the DOE to continue for the next several months.

###

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, national labs and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions, world-class universities, and groups focused on environmental justice. Learn more at MachH2.com. 

MachH2, clean hydrogen industry will deliver high-quality jobs, improved air quality, public health improvements, and economic development to the Midwest

CHICAGO (October 13, 2023) — Today, the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) announced it has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) to develop a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (H2Hub). DOE’s H2Hubs will kickstart a national network of clean hydrogen producers, consumers, and connective infrastructure while supporting the production, storage, delivery, and end-use of clean hydrogen. Funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the H2Hubs will accelerate the commercial-scale deployment of clean hydrogen—helping generate clean, dispatchable power, create a new form of energy storage, and decarbonize heavy industry and transportation. Together, they will also reduce 25 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions from end-uses each year—an amount roughly equivalent to combined annual emissions of 5.5 million gasoline-powered cars—and create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs across the country while supporting healthier communities and strengthening America’s energy security. 

“This is a historic day for MachH2 and the entire Midwest,” said Dr. Dorothy Davidson, CEO of MachH2. “Our hub and the region bring an unparalleled supply of clean energy, significant regional hydrogen demand, heavy industry, and an ideal location at the crossroads of America – all of which was recognized by the DOE’s selection of MachH2. Our hub will scale the production and delivery of abundant, reliable, and increasingly affordable clean hydrogen to support our national climate goals in the coming decade, all while creating jobs and lifting up underrepresented communities that have been overburdened by pollution.”
“Unlocking the full potential of hydrogen—a versatile fuel that can be made from almost any energy resource in virtually every part of the country—is crucial to achieving President Biden’s goal of American industry powered by American clean energy, ensuring less volatility and more affordable clean energy options for American families and businesses,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “With this historic investment, the Biden-Harris Administration is laying the foundation for a new, American-led industry that will propel the global clean energy transition while creating high quality jobs and delivering healthier communities in every pocket of the nation.” 

“I couldn’t be prouder that once again, Illinois and the Midwest will be leading the way in equity-conscious clean energy development through the construction of a major hydrogen production and distribution hub,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. “When I signed the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act in 2019, it was with this sort of collaborative, economically sound manufacturing and expansion in mind, and we are seeing the results of those efforts play out every day. We’re grateful that the Biden administration has recognized our regional strength in workforce, education, and innovation, and look forward to working with MachH2 and our neighboring states to continue this project.”

“I congratulate the MachH2 team for a successful application and award from the DOE, and Indiana is excited to partner with the MachH2 consortium,” Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb said. “Indiana and the Midwest at large possesses all the components critical for a successful and inclusive hydrogen economy. Among them, Indiana’s world-class universities that offer leading research and development and create a highly skilled workforce ready to get to work building a new hydrogen ecosystem ripe for growth.”

“The Midwest is showing the nation that by working together, we can grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, and bring business investments to our region,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Michigan is proud to work with our neighbors to build up our hydrogen industry and lead the future of the emerging clean energy sector. Michigan is leading the nation in clean energy and electric vehicle projects and jobs. With MachH2, we will continue reducing our emissions, improving public health outcomes, and building a brighter future for generations to come.”

MachH2 anticipates creating 13,600 direct jobs—12,100 in construction jobs and 1,500 permanent jobs. Made up of more than 70 public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain, MachH2 members are united in a shared vision to create an immediately scalable hydrogen hub in the Midwest that deploys the region’s abundant carbon-free and low-carbon energy to create a clean hydrogen economy and reduce emissions across multiple heavy emitting sectors. A list of alliance members is available here.

When made with clean energy, hydrogen is an essential resource in meeting our nation’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. As an energy source, hydrogen does not emit carbon and can be used to reduce emissions from multiple difficult-to-decarbonize sectors of the economy, including steelmaking, manufacturing, aviation, agriculture, and long-haul transportation, among others. 
MachH2 submitted its full application to the DOE in April of this year. The hub anticipates the award negotiation period with the DOE to begin in the Winter of 2023-2024.

###

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, national labs and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions, world-class universities, and groups focused on environmental justice. Learn more at MachH2.com. 

About the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations: The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) was established to accelerate clean energy technologies and fill a critical innovation gap on the path to achieving our nation’s climate goals of net zero emissions by 2050. OCED’s mission is to deliver clean energy demonstration projects at scale in partnership with the private sector to accelerate deployment, market adoption, and the equitable transition to a decarbonized energy system. Visit energy.gov/oced to learn more.

Teams showcase their hydrogen-fueled remote-control vehicles at world-class competition

This week, two Chicago-area high school teams — Prosser Academy on the city’s northwest side and the ‘Door Knobs’ from the northwest suburbs — represented the Chicago region at the Horizon Educational’s Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) World Final in Las Vegas. The Horizon H2GP World Final took place at the annual RE+ Energy Conference from September 11-14, 2023. The competition drew students from over 20 countries, each having designed and engineered their vehicles powered by hydrogen. 

The ‘Door Knobs’ are sponsored by the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC) through a grant from Nicor Gas. The students from these two teams designed, engineered, and constructed their hydrogen-powered, remote-control vehicles for this global competition. Nicor Gas is a member of the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2), a coalition of parties across the hydrogen value chain who are pursuing Department of Energy funding to advance clean energy and decarbonization solutions though clean hydrogen in the Midwest. 

MachH2 sponsored the Midwest Hydrogen Grand Prix regional race in the spring, with additional member companies also engaging with other local school groups, embracing the opportunity to work within the community to mentor the students as they built the fuel-cell RC cars, as well as fostering their interest in engineering and fueling their passion for energy and the environment.

“These students are the future clean energy designers, engineers, lab technicians and inventors”, said Kamil Jelinek, CEO of Horizon Educational. “Today you’ll see them designing, engineering, constructing and racing their very own hydrogen-powered 1:10 scale cars; tomorrow they’ll be building the electrolyzers, fuel cells, solar panels and wind turbines that will power communities for decades to come”.

“The Door Knobs have shown an exceptional commitment to understanding hydrogen technology and the broader clean energy landscape,” said Meena Beyers, Nicor Gas Vice President of Community & Business Development. “We’re thrilled to support their journey to the Horizon H2GP World Final through our grant to the ISTC.”

“It is imperative for our students to engage in STEM activities that inspire them and position them to see themselves as part of the solutions being developed in climate science,” said Rebecca Goldberg, Director of ISTC Education. “Additionally, it is very encouraging to see our community, especially ISTC Board Members from Nicor and Constellation, supporting our future workforce through these unique programs and their participation as MachH2 members.”

The H2GP World Final serves as a pivotal platform for students to learn and gain practical experience in clean energy engineering, design, teamwork, and problem-solving. It aligns with MachH2’s goals, which includes preparing and empowering the next generation of the clean energy workforce.

Photos from the race are available here.

###

About MachH2: MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross-section of carbon-free energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, national labs and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions, world-class universities, and groups focused on environmental justice. Learn more at MachH2.com

About Horizon Educational: Founded in 2003, Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies began the sale of miniature fuel cells to demonstrate the technology to schools and students around the world, while investing in R&D of more advanced products and industrial applications. In 2013, Horizon Educational Group was formed as an independent division dedicated to the deployment of a complete range of educational solutions. Horizon Educational develop, produce, and distribute hands-on teaching material and didactic equipment as well as online curricula and educational programs. With distributors in over 150 countries, the STEM kits and technical training equipment have an international reputation for quality, educational content, and award-winning design. Discover more at horizoneducational.com

Members highlight the Midwest hub’s existing clean energy assets, infrastructure, and heavy industry as competitive advantages in accelerating the clean hydrogen transformation

Program sponsored by Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen members trains next generation of renewable energy leaders; winners advance on to Grand Prix World Final

MachH2 will help accelerate the national clean energy transformation and deliver extensive climate, economic benefits to the Midwest 

Alliance members engaging communities, schools in the Midwest to equip students with employable science and technology skills in fast-growing hydrogen industry.