Bill 118 HR 2962, also known as the Hydrogen Permitting Simplification Act, aims to streamline the permitting process for hydrogen projects in the United States. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 20, 2021, by Representative John Curtis from Utah.
The main goal of the bill is to promote the development of hydrogen infrastructure by reducing regulatory barriers and expediting the permitting process for hydrogen projects. This includes projects related to the production, storage, and transportation of hydrogen.
The bill proposes several key provisions to achieve this goal. First, it directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a coordinated permitting process for hydrogen projects, involving multiple federal agencies. This process aims to ensure timely and efficient approval of permits for hydrogen projects.
Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Energy to develop best practices for permitting hydrogen projects and provide technical assistance to state and local governments to streamline their permitting processes. This will help create a more consistent and efficient regulatory framework for hydrogen projects across the country.
Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to improve coordination between federal, state, and local agencies involved in permitting hydrogen projects. This will help reduce duplication of efforts and ensure that regulatory requirements are clear and consistent.
Overall, the Hydrogen Permitting Simplification Act seeks to facilitate the growth of the hydrogen industry in the United States by making the permitting process more efficient and less burdensome for developers. By streamlining regulatory requirements and promoting coordination between government agencies, the bill aims to accelerate the deployment of hydrogen infrastructure and support the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.