New York Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a robust $14 million initiative to foster clean hydrogen research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) projects in New York. The first tranche, totaling $8 million, is directed at challenges associated with decarbonizing industrial heat processes and bolstering clean hydrogen and renewable energy integration. This effort backs the state's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act aspirations to trim emissions by 85% by 2050 and transition to an entirely zero-emission electricity grid by 2040.
"New York is at the forefront of advancing clean hydrogen technologies, and we're committed to maintaining our pioneering position in this emergent industry," remarked Governor Hochul. "By endorsing innovative hydrogen solutions, we're positioning ourselves for a cleaner future, creating tomorrow's jobs, and ensuring a sustainable New York for upcoming generations."
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is currently inviting applications from individual entities or consortiums, focusing on two primary challenge areas. Proposals can fall under various categories, ranging from preliminary research, product evolution, to pilot schemes, and federal co-funding projects. The deadline for submissions for this phase is set for 3:00 p.m., October 23, 2023.
A second phase, with an expected fund of $5.8 million, is due later this year. It will introduce three new technical challenge areas, emphasizing the mitigation of NOx emissions from hydrogen combustion, advancements in hydrogen storage, and development of hydrogen-centric systems for microgrids.
Doreen M. Harris, NYSERDA President, emphasized New York's commitment to nurturing a clean-hydrogen ecosystem that aligns with emissions reduction goals. "Every project sanctioned under this initiative will be integral to the state's comprehensive plan, supporting hydrogen exploration and fostering a cohesive network of projects across the state," Harris said.
The initiative coincides with New York's broader approach towards a clean hydrogen ecosystem, which encompasses cost-sharing schemes for federal clean hydrogen projects and collaboration with the Northeast Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (NE Hub). These efforts underscore the region's unified strategy, bolstered by states like Connecticut, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, to secure federal funding and gain recognition as a regional hydrogen hub.
Source: ny.gov