The DOE aims to select an entity/entities to manage a new demand-side support program to expedite the commercialization of clean hydrogen at DOE-funded Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs).
The selected entity/entities will oversee administrative functions of DOE-designed demand-side support mechanisms.
Eligible entities must be non-profit, based in the U.S., and led by U.S. nationals. Federal corporations and entities under foreign control are ineligible.
The selected entity/entities will receive funding to support hydrogen projects affiliated with the H2Hubs program, with an anticipated program duration of at least 5 years and funding between $500 million and $1 billion.
DOE might consider similar demand-side mechanisms for other clean energy products in the future based on the program's performance.
Demand-side support can accelerate the commercialization of clean hydrogen by providing revenue certainty to projects. This addresses the challenge of securing demand for early deployments.
An independent not-for-profit U.S. entity could administer the demand-side support program, partnering with DOE to provide market expertise.
DOE requests interested entities to submit a concept paper outlining their capabilities.
Concept papers should address various points, including the organization's background, capabilities, proposed terms and conditions, operating plan, and perspectives on demand-side support.
Concept papers must be submitted by October 26, 2023, at 6 PM Eastern Time.
Evaluation criteria include market experience, operational ability, ecosystem credibility, strength of the proposal for demand-side mechanism, and business systems and processes.
Learn more here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOEOCED/bulletins/36de62a
Seems like the $1B demand dollars will be handled like a voucher program…thoughts?