“The Potential for Clean Hydrogen in the Carolinas” outlines key takeaways from a public workshop and private roundtable discussion held in October 2021 that explored a hydrogen hub concept in North and South Carolina. With newfound widespread focus on decarbonization, hydrogen has peaked interest in recent years in energy systems and could address decarbonization challenges in many sectors, including transportation.
The public-facing workshop convened moderated panel discussions with the intent to determine regional aspirations for hydrogen, consider the success of other hydrogen hubs currently underway, and explore ongoing and potential actions that could underpin a hydrogen economy in the Carolinas. The private roundtable discussion included stakeholders in the Carolinas, and their discussion included regional interest in hydrogen and how this might translate into a hub model.
These discussions resulted in a shared view that hydrogen can be a viable low-carbon pathway and engine for economic growth for the Carolinas. With academic activities in hydrogen development, a natural laboratory, and industry resources, the Carolinas appear to have all the ingredients important for a hydrogen hub. A recommended next step is to form a multi-sector coalition to develop a shared vision for a hydrogen hub while identifying pathways to address concerns, including costs and policy support.
–Sonia Velazquez
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