The non-partisan project aims to capitalise on the state’s existing energy momentum as it develops one of the US’ first hydrogen hubs (H2 Hubs) and educate policymakers on the potential of hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), wind energy and nuclear technology.

It is led by several prominent figures in the local energy sector, including PDC Machines’ Osama Al-Qasem.

Dean Kemp, Dean of the Penn State School of Earth Sciences, said the group’s focus will be on “pragmatism”.

“We must invest in clean energy technology. That’s where advanced nuclear reactors and zero carbon fuels, such as hydrogen, become essential.”

Former State Rep Marguerite Quinn said,”There are new innovative carbon capture and storage technology that present promising solutions to help industry safely and permanently capture and dispose of their carbon dioxide solutions.”

Pennsylvania has long been regarded as an energy abundant state with a significant history of energy production and innovation. It has been one of the leading producers of coal for over 200 years and hosted the country’s first commercial oil well and the world’s first full-scale commercial nuclear power plant.

The project’s launch marks another clear signal that the US is accelerating its clean energy activities at regional and grass roots level.

Energy Harbor Corp. recently joined forces with the University of Toledo, major industrial companies in the region, several DOE national laboratories and others to form a new industry-led coalition, Great Lakes Clean Hydrogen (GLCH), to transition the Midwest into a leading low-carbon fuel production center, attracting major investment, new businesses and job creation.

Read more:  US Midwest launches Great Lakes Clean Hydrogen coalition