Southwest Virginia Hydrogen Hub

The Virginia Department of Energy is launching a program to encourage hydrogen production in the Southwest Virginia (SWVA) region and its use across the Commonwealth. The primary objective of this initiative is to tackle energy issues critical for a successful transition to clean energy while promoting economic development in SWVA. These planning grants will support and extend the efforts for energy transition in that region.

The program invited proposals from entities operating in the Southwest region of the Commonwealth.

Program Overview:

Virginia Energy invites proposals for establishing four planning grants at $250,000 each to help support the potential for the development of the hydrogen production industry in the Southwestern Virginia region. The effects of the downturn of the coal industry have severely impacted the low-income and disadvantaged communities of the coalfields. Southwest Virginia is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this opportunity. The repurposing of previously mined land and development of energy-ready industrial sites with access to abundant water, natural gas, and on-site rail, are ideal for creating a hydrogen production hub in the region. This program represents a significant step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future for the citizens of the commonwealth particularly those that have been historically underserved.

Objective:

The project's objective is to develop and confront energy issues that must be addressed for a viable transition to clean energy. The projects would explore possible avenues to produce blue and green hydrogen and also aim to provide opportunities for new industries to grow in SWVA which historically has a higher percentage of underserved communities; focusing on employment generation within disadvantaged and rural communities as defined by the Justice40 criteria (outlined in the guidelines). Through this federally funded program, the commonwealth will explore future economic opportunities around this industry specifically if they align with the state’s Energy Plan.


  • Total Amount Available: Up to $1,000,000 
  • Proposal Period of Performance: 2 years
  • Proposal Amount: Sub-Awards Up to $250,000. Virginia Department of Energy (Virginia Energy) may elect to partially award proposals at its discretion.
  • Eligible Geography: Projects must benefit the Southwest Virginia region.

General Reporting Requirements:

Awardees must submit quarterly progress reports documenting invoiced work and summarizing completed activities. Reports should include metrics on equipment intake calls, identified solutions, and Justice40 compliance benefits as required by Executive Order 14008.

Additional data to report:

  • Attendance at public events and outreach contact volume.
  • Research and analysis on hydrogen production (green and blue) and deployment strategies.
  • Policy implications, challenges, and the environmental and economic impact of hydrogen integration in the region.

Sub-Award Proposal Instructions

Carefully review the program guidelines, objectives, and example terms and conditions to ensure proposals align with program goals.

  • Awards will be based on competitive evaluation and scoring criteria outlined in the application.
  • Submit complete applications by January 31, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
  • Use the provided format with a minimum 12-point font size.
  • Limit applications to 10 pages, excluding required attachments.

Please click here for more information.