New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant investment of over $11 million in five clean hydrogen research and development projects across the state. This funding, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), targets key barriers to clean hydrogen adoption, including decarbonising industrial processes, supporting hard-to-electrify sectors like transportation, and enhancing grid reliability.
The projects selected for funding demonstrate a range of applications for clean hydrogen. GTI Energy received over $220,000 to assess New York’s potential for geological hydrogen storage, a technology that could support large-scale, long-duration energy storage solutions. National Grid Ventures was granted $2 million to test a 100% hydrogen-fuelled linear generator at the Northport Power Plant in Fort Salonga, aiming to improve air quality and grid stability. Plug Power was allocated $2 million to collaborate with Verne on developing hydrogen distribution trailers with cryo-compressed storage solutions, focusing on cost reductions and increased efficiency for hydrogen deployment. Stony Brook University received more than $4.9 million to create a low-pressure, ambient-temperature hydrogen storage system at Staten Island University Hospital – North Campus, enhancing healthcare system resilience. Additionally, SWITCH Maritime secured $2 million to develop New York’s first hydrogen fuel cell-electric ferry, contributing to zero-emission transportation on New York City waterways.
These initiatives not only support the grid but also aim to reduce emissions, including carbon, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. This is particularly beneficial for public health in congested areas and disadvantaged communities. Governor Hochul emphasised the importance of these investments, stating, “New York’s investments in clean hydrogen are helping to unlock this emerging resource as a potential contributor to the state’s affordable, abundant, and reliable energy system. Advancing alternative fuels like clean hydrogen will grow our clean energy economy while reducing emissions statewide.”
NYSERDA president and CEO Doreen M Harris highlighted the innovative nature of these projects, saying, “We are proud to partner with these companies that have been awarded for their bold vision in advancing clean hydrogen as part of New York’s energy transition. These innovative projects are catalysts for development that will lower costs, grow the economy, and make this resource a viable solution as part of a diversified clean energy mix for all New Yorkers.”
The funding and development of these projects could significantly shape the future of the clean energy sector in New York and beyond. By addressing critical barriers to clean hydrogen adoption, these initiatives may accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy system. The focus on reducing emissions and improving grid reliability could also set a precedent for other states and regions looking to integrate clean hydrogen into their energy strategies. As these projects progress, they may inspire further innovation and investment in clean hydrogen technologies, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and low-carbon energy future.