Southwest Allegheny News

The future of clean energy is rapidly converging on Pennsylvania, with western Pennsylvania poised at the heart of this transformative moment. On August 14-15, senior U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) officials will arrive in Pittsburgh to engage with a diverse coalition of stakeholders from industry, banking, investment, trade unions, and government. This meeting in Moon Township is a critical step in advancing the hydrogen economy.

Two years ago, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was heralded as a game-changer, allocating billions to develop seven regional hydrogen hubs nationwide. Pennsylvania was uniquely recognized with two awards – ARCH2 for Western Pennsylvania and MACH2 for Eastern Pennsylvania – each slated to receive $1 billion. However, despite this substantial federal commitment, not a single dollar has been spent, and bureaucratic delays are causing mounting frustration.

Earlier this year, CNX Resources Corporation, based in Pittsburgh, unveiled plans for a groundbreaking hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel hub at Pittsburgh International Airport. This facility promises to drive hydrogen innovation, support aviation decarbonization, reduce transportation costs and boost supply chain efficiencies.

"No other state matches Pennsylvania’s potential for job creation, technological advancement and economic growth," said State Rep. Valerie Gaydos. "We have a skilled workforce eager to tackle the challenges of hydrogen production, storage and transportation." She emphasized the need for prompt federal action to realize this potential.

It is particularly disheartening that the IRA included requirements for each winning bid to include small businesses and underrepresented communities. Institutions like Cheney University invested significant effort into their bids. Their initial enthusiasm is now overshadowed by concerns about the slow pace of federal action.

"The workforce in Pittsburgh is equipped and enthusiastic," Gaydos stated. "We need to capitalize on public-private partnerships and ensure state agencies streamline permitting and reduce regulatory burdens."

As DOE officials visit Pittsburgh next week, they will hear a unified message: "Pennsylvania is primed and eager to advance." According to Gaydos: "We have a wealth of small companies with innovative ideas; trade unions ready to train the next generation of workers; investors prepared to infuse capital; and researchers ready to push boundaries."

Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) serves on several committees including Commerce, Government Oversight, Liquor Control (Republican Secretary), and Professional Licensure committees. She is also a board member of Team PA Foundation and the Pennsylvania Energy Horizons Cross Sector Collaboration.

For further information:

Representative Valerie Gaydos

44th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Rick Leiner

717-260-6437

rleiner@pahousegop.com