LaHood supports Energy Dept.’s funding selection for Illinois clean energy hub

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) on Oct. 17 commended action by the U.S. Energy Department, which selected the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) for the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub Funding Opportunity. 

Portions of the federal funding will go toward building the world’s largest nuclear-powered clean hydrogen production facility at Constellation’s LaSalle Clean Energy Center in Marseilles, Ill., according to information provided by the congressman’s staff.

“This project will strengthen energy security in Illinois and throughout the country,” Rep. LaHood said. “With a healthy nuclear and carbon-free energy sector, central Illinois is in a strong position to be a leader in hydrogen production. In Congress, I will continue to support an all-of-the-above energy approach that invests in our domestic resources and returns our country to robust energy independence.”

In May, Rep. LaHood joined bipartisan members of Illinois’ Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the Energy Department supporting the MachH2 application. The Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub will support clean energy investments and bolster the nation’s energy security by creating jobs and a network of hydrogen producers in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, the information says.

“I applaud the selection of MachH2 as one of the nation’s first Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs, including its support for creating the world’s largest nuclear-powered clean hydrogen production facility in Marseilles,” said Rep. LaHood. “Illinois, and specifically the 16th Congressional District, is home to robust energy resources and an established agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation network.”

The Midwest Hydrogen Hub will support clean hydrogen energy production, including steel and glass production, power generation, refining, heavy-duty transportation, and sustainable aviation fuel. It is anticipated that the hub will create more than 13,000 construction and permanent jobs, Rep. LaHood’s staff said.