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 to hydrogen energy while promoting economic development in SWVA.

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

Program Overview:

Virginia Energy invites proposals for establishing planning grants of $250,000 each to 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. For more information, please visit the Department Website or contact Daniel Kestner or Jonika Rathi.

Application Process

The proposal period is open, and details can be found on the department's official website.

Objective:

The project's objective is to develop and confront energy issues that must be addressed for the successful implementation of Virginia's all-of-the-above plan. 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. 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 $750,000
  • Proposal Period of Performance: December 31, 2027
  • 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:

The Program will maintain and report metrics on the volume of equipment intake calls and solutions identified with communities. Each project proposal should include plans for documentation of invoiced work as well as quarterly progress reports summarizing work completed and providing applicable information discussed above

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. All proposals should align with the goals and requirements proposals will be evaluated on a competitive basis and will be awarded based on the perceived highest merit and priorities identified in the guidelines. Awards will be made based on the scoring indicated on the required application.

  • Awards will be based on competitive evaluation and scoring criteria outlined in the application.
  • Submit complete applications by November 15, 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.