Zulene Mayfield : “Hydrogen Hub Projects Spark Concern in Communities”

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HARRISBURG – Public Feedback Sought on Major Hydrogen Production Networks in Pennsylvania

The federal government and private developers are seeking public input on two significant hydrogen production networks planned for Pennsylvania as part of a multibillion-dollar initiative by the Biden administration to reduce carbon pollution and combat climate change.

However, concerns have been raised by affected communities and environmental advocates who feel excluded from the planning process for these massive projects. There is worry that the focus on clean energy and job creation may overlook serious health risks. Interviews conducted by Spotlight PA with various stakeholders and feedback from public meetings overwhelmingly reflect apprehension rather than enthusiasm.

Zulene Mayfield, the head of Chester Residents Concerned for Quality Living, expressed concerns about the proposed Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2) that includes pipelines, hydrogen production plants, and storage facilities planned in and around Chester. Mayfield believes that historically marginalized communities, particularly Black and brown residents, have been disproportionately impacted by similar projects in the past.

Hydrogen is a key clean-burning fuel in the federal government’s efforts to make carbon-intensive industries like cement and steel production more environmentally friendly. However, the process of generating hydrogen can also release greenhouse gases, depending on the production method.

Community Concerns

Last autumn, the Biden administration announced a $1.6 billion investment in building two hydrogen hubs, with several projects set to be located in Pennsylvania. The Department of Energy has been conducting information sessions since October 2023, with three public meetings held on MACH2 and additional sessions planned by developers in the coming weeks.

Community advocates like Marcia Dinkins and Veronica Coptis have expressed frustration over the lack of detailed information about the proposed projects. Dinkins, from the Black Appalachian Coalition, and Coptis, a resident of Carmichael near a planned ARCH2 facility, highlighted the need for transparency regarding the environmental and health impacts of the hubs.

Project Details

The MACH2 hub is expected to have 25 projects, with around 15 located in southeast Pennsylvania. These projects include hydrogen production facilities using various sources such as steam methane reformation, nuclear energy, and renewables like solar. The plans also feature carbon capture and storage facilities, new pipelines spanning through Marcus Hook borough, and initiatives for aviation fuel production and hydrogen-powered municipal vehicles in Philadelphia.

On the other hand, ARCH2 will have 15 projects, with three located in Pennsylvania. One project in Clinton County aims to produce blue hydrogen using natural gas while minimizing emissions through carbon capture. However, concerns remain about potential health and environmental impacts, especially in regions like the Marcellus Shale where fracking activities have been prevalent.

Environmental Concerns

Residents and environmental advocates are seeking more information about the exact project locations, expected emissions, and potential habitat disruptions. There are worries about the impact of subsurface carbon dioxide storage, pipeline safety, and the overall environmental risks associated with the hydrogen hubs.

Community members are calling for greater transparency from developers and government agencies to address health and safety concerns. The Federal Department of Energy’s plans to enforce the Justice40 Initiative, ensuring economic benefits reach marginalized communities, are also under scrutiny.

Conclusion

As the development of hydrogen hubs in Pennsylvania progresses, stakeholders are urging for increased communication, community engagement, and environmental protection measures to be prioritised. The need for a thorough assessment of the health, safety, and environmental implications of these projects is paramount to ensure the well-being of residents and the sustainability of the region.