The project's objectives are to streamline siting and permitting for hydrogen fueling stations and support the clean hydrogen economy

This federal Cooperative Agreement award, provided by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) under the Renewable Energy Research and Development program (CFDA 81.087), aims to streamline siting and permitting for hydrogen fueling stations and support the clean hydrogen economy. The $1,000,000 award to the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) will develop a more streamlined approach to permitting and siting based on a model policy, programmatic and regulatory framework. This includes community engagement tools, safety and emergency response language, and capacity building for state energy offices, local governments, and community organizations. The project will reference existing mandates and incorporate new information to create actionable resources. Two sub-awards to the Great Plains Institute for Sustainable Development ($TBD) and Louisiana Clean Fuels, Inc. ($TBD) will support the development of local workshops and a guiding framework, as well as facilitate state-local dialogues and information sharing.

This will be accomplished by developing a more streamlined approach to permitting and siting based on a model policy, programmatic and regulatory framework that includes community engagement tools and safety and emergency response language that can be incorporated into state planning efforts and more educated and capable state energy officials, local governments, and community organizations. Stakeholders in louisiana will be able to provide direct feedback and input on permitting and safety challenges and opportunities that will be incorporated into the deliverables and leveraged as case studies for the other partner states and a national audience. The process will also facilitate capacity building and connection among state energy offices working on initiatives across the hydrogen value chain. The project will reference existing permitting and siting mandates and incorporate new information to create actionable resources for local and state officials, while elevating community, economic development, and workforce considerations. The outcomes and deliverables from this regional project will be replicated across the country and will also inform eere's research and market transformation investments.