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Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative Scott Peters have introduced the Hydrogen Infrastructure and Innovation Act (HIFIA), a bipartisan legislation aimed at supporting hydrogen infrastructure and technological innovation. The bill establishes a pilot program that provides grants and low-interest loans for new or retrofitted hydrogen infrastructure projects, such as transportation, storage, and refueling stations.

The Hydrogen Infrastructure and Innovation Act is part of a larger bipartisan package called the "Hydrogen Infrastructure Initiative," which aims to expand the use of hydrogen as a clean energy resource, advance research on its efficient utilization and transportation, and reduce the environmental impacts of greenhouse gases. The companion bill is being led in the U.S. Senate by Senator John Cornyn and Senator Chris Coons.

Congressman Fitzpatrick emphasizes the importance of hydrogen and fuel cell technology in achieving a cleaner American energy future. He states, "Our legislation will ensure that federal resources for and research on hydrogen, a crucial domestic energy source, are made available to communities across the country. Innovative investments like those provided by this proposal are essential to pollution reduction, job creation, and U.S. energy security."

Congressman Peters highlights the need for investments in clean hydrogen to meet climate goals, reduce pollution, and create green energy jobs. He emphasizes that for hydrogen to be successful, infrastructure investment is necessary. He states, "Our bill will give this emerging industry the kick-start it needs to thrive while helping us act with the urgency the climate crisis demands."

Senator Cornyn acknowledges the versatility of hydrogen as an energy source but points out the lack of infrastructure to fully utilize its benefits. He believes that the legislation will make hydrogen more accessible and cost-effective for businesses and consumers.

Senator Coons focuses on the importance of transporting hydrogen from production sites to where it can be used and stored. He believes that the bill's flexible and low-interest financing will incentivize further hydrogen development, help meet climate goals, enhance energy security, and create good-paying jobs.

The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association expresses gratitude for the leadership of Congressman Fitzpatrick and Congressman Peters in reintroducing the Hydrogen Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act. The association sees this legislation as a bipartisan recognition of hydrogen's critical role in decarbonization, job creation, and driving private investment in America.

The introduction of the Hydrogen Infrastructure and Innovation Act signals a commitment to supporting hydrogen infrastructure and technological innovation in the United States. The bill aims to create a pilot program that will provide funding and financing options for hydrogen projects, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.