The US Department of Energy (DOE) is betting big on hydrogen hubs, or networks of clean hydrogen producers, consumers, and connective infrastructure. With $7 billion awarded to seven regional hubs in 2023, hydrogen could accelerate the clean energy transition.
But there’s a catch, climate champion.
While truly clean hydrogen relies solely on low-carbon energy sources, four of the seven hubs will use a mix of renewables and natural gas — which releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas — with expensive carbon capture and storage technology.
This directly contradicts the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council, which explicitly listed fossil fuel development and carbon capture technology as examples of projects that will not benefit communities, especially those that have been historically polluted.
Even worse, communities haven't been properly involved in the decision-making process. The DOE acknowledges the need for community engagement, yet consultations have been minimal and crucial information remains inaccessible to the public.
We cannot let our transition to clean energy exacerbate environmental injustice.
Join us in demanding full transparency from the DOE on the hydrogen hub program, with all information to be released publicly, readily accessible, and delivered in a timely manner.
