Delgado: Hydrogen Hub, Clean Energy Jobs Critical to Illinois’ Future

CHICAGO – State Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado, D-Chicago, is continuing her fight for clean energy opportunities that support disadvantaged communities, highlighting the importance of federal funding for a Midwestern Hydrogen Hub that will decarbonize key economic sectors.

“Cutting carbon emissions and creating jobs are not contradictory goals, and this federal funding for a regional hydrogen hub is proof of that,” Delgado said. “By partnering with the federal government and regional actors, Illinois and the Midwest are paving the way for a future without climate change.”

On Friday Oct. 13, President Joe Biden and the Department of Energy (DOE) announced more than $7 billion in funding through 2021’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to several regional hydrogen production facilities. These facilities would create low-emission hydrogen to power regional industries, help the U.S. reach carbon reduction goals, and combat climate change.

The Midwest Hydrogen Hub, consisting of Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, targets steel and gas production, heavy-duty transportation and aviation fuel industries for decarbonization efforts. Leveraging renewable energy, natural gas and nuclear energy sources, the Hub is projected to create 13,600 jobs through construction and permanent positions, with 40% of subcontracted dollars dedicated to minority and disadvantaged business enterprises.

As co-chair of the Sustainable Fuels Caucus, Delgado has a strong history of advocacy for cleaner energy solutions, including passing the instrumental Clean Energy and Jobs Act (CEJA) to move Illinois into a sustainable energy future.

“We knew that CEJA was only the start of our decarbonization and clean energy jobs efforts,” Delgado said. “As we build on the foundation set by this legislation and the funding announced on Friday, we are keeping in mind that minority communities cannot be left out. I am thankful to Governor Pritzker, President Biden and the dedicated stakeholders who are making sure that low-income and marginalized groups benefit from these clean energy developments, as we strengthen our commitment to an inclusive and sustainable future for all.”

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