Posted on April 28, 2021 by Rich Powell
This op-ed was originally published by The Republic on April 28, 2021. Click here to read the entire piece.
As normal routines were upended due to COVID-19, communities and businesses have been forced to use two very important words — adapt and innovate. Offices are getting creative with work-from-home policies, restaurants are developing expansive takeout options, and healthcare facilities are offering virtual doctor’s appointments.
Energy and industrial companies are looking to innovate too.
One of the hottest technologies for innovation right now is hydrogen. In addition to job-creating capabilities, hydrogen is a versatile, clean energy carrier that can help the nation reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and achieve net-zero emissions goals. It’s used to decarbonize industrial processes, store and provide backup energy for the electric grid, and serves as a transportation fuel for busses, long-haul trucks and passenger vehicles.
And Indiana’s leaders are far ahead of the curve.
U.S. Reps. Greg Pence and Andre Carson have introduced H.R. 1788, the Clean Energy Hydrogen Innovation Act, to advance innovation in hydrogen energy in Indiana and across the country. The bill would, among other things, give access to low-cost financing for projects relating to hydrogen production, delivery, infrastructure, storage, fuel cells and end uses.
And likewise, U.S. Sen. Todd Young introduced S.4970, the Hydrogen Utilization and Sustainability Act last year to include electricity produced from hydrogen as eligible for the Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC). The bipartisan bill would promote investment in hydrogen-based energy.
Over the past year, Indiana has become a major hub for hydrogen technology, and many of the advancements in this industry are happening here.
Click here to read the full article
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