Xcel Energy announced its proposal to build a clean energy hydrogen hub on the eastern plains as it advances in bringing new, clean and reliable energy to the region. The company submitted a plan to the U.S Department of Energy to build a clean hydrogen energy hub in Colorado as part of the Western Interstate Hydrogen Hub, LLC (WISHH). WISHH is an interconnected, multi-state hydrogen network to provide large-scale, commercially viable hydrogen in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.
“The strong partnership with our Western states and other energy providers demonstrates regional commitment to increasing economic impact while achieving carbon goals for our customers.”
“The investment in these eight hydrogen projects is a crucial step to achieving shared energy independence goals and my goal of 100% renewable energy in Colorado by 2040.”
“I appreciate the federal governments’ partnership and support in the development of innovative renewable energy technologies.”
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Xcel Energy-Colorado’s hydrogen hub is one of eight key projects in the WISHH proposal. The company’s “green hydrogen hub” project provides the WISHH proposal a strategic advantage given its proximity to existing and future renewable wind and solar energy, power plant infrastructure and geography favorable for underground hydrogen storage.
If successful, the application could lead to $1.25 billion in federal dollars awarded for the entire four-state region. If completed, the company’s project will reduce carbon emissions by more than 750,000 tons per year, helping to advance Xcel Energy’s clean energy goals as well as the state of Colorado’s emission reduction goals.
Xcel Energy estimates funding up to $1.8 billion over a decade for clean hydrogen producing equipment and infrastructure, representing 75% of full program costs for the company’s portion of the hub. As a member of the WISHH team, Xcel Energy is prepared to execute and fund its portion of the project to build and operate safe, clean hydrogen infrastructure in the region.
Xcel Energy has nearly two decades of experience leading the clean energy transition and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Company-wide, the company’s vision is to provide net-zero energy by 2050 across three large sectors of the economy, including electricity, natural gas use in buildings and transportation.
SOURCE: Hydrogen Central