H2Go: How experts, industry leaders say US hydrogen is fuel for the future of agriculture, energy, security
The Trump administration has been pursuing an “all of the above” energy strategy, which has brought increased attention to hydrogen as a potential power source. The Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Association (PNWHA), one of seven hubs nationwide, is partnering with tribal, public, and private concerns to build hydrogen production projects throughout their region.
President of PNWHA, Chris Green, explained that hydrogen has a versatile nature as a molecule, making it suitable for various applications. While it can be used as a power source, its primary role is as an energy carrier due to its periodic makeup. Hydrogen is also essential in agriculture, particularly in the production of fertilizers. Given that much of the fertilizer historically imported from countries like Russia and Ukraine is hydrogen-based, increasing domestic hydrogen production could reduce reliance on unreliable or adversarial economies.
Green emphasized that the U.S. has the opportunity to leap ahead of other countries by expanding hydrogen infrastructure. While there has been talk of hydrogen-powered vehicles in the past, concerns about its flammable nature have hindered widespread adoption. However, companies like Chevron are investing heavily in hydrogen, recognizing its potential as a cleaner fuel source.
Chevron’s ACES Delta project in Utah aims to produce and store hydrogen at a large scale using subterranean salt caverns. This project has the potential to supply significant amounts of hydrogen to various industries and power the Intermountain Power Agency. Chevron sees hydrogen as a key component in delivering lower-carbon solutions, especially where electrification is not feasible.
The bipartisan support for hydrogen reflects its potential to bridge divides between renewable energy advocates and supporters of traditional energy sources. Central Washington, in particular, is leading the way in embracing an all-of-the-above energy approach to achieve American energy dominance. Representatives like Dan Newhouse and Senators Patty Murray and Jeffrey Merkley have shown support for the growth of America’s green hydrogen economy.
The Washington State Potato Commission also sees potential in hydrogen for agriculture, as it could provide a local supply for fertilizer production and potentially fuel agricultural machinery. By supporting hydrogen production in the Pacific Northwest, the agriculture industry aims to strengthen its future and mitigate supply chain disruptions.
Overall, the increased focus on hydrogen as a clean and versatile energy source has the potential to drive innovation, create new jobs, and strengthen domestic supply chains. As the U.S. continues to invest in hydrogen infrastructure, it could position itself as a leader in the global energy transition.
