The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released a significant update to its 45VH2-GREET modeling tool, easing regulatory barriers for hydrogen producers and expanding access to federal support under the 45V clean hydrogen tax credit.

The updated 45VH2-GREET model, developed by Argonne National Laboratory, introduces a more flexible method for calculating methane loss across hydrogen supply chains. Instead of relying on national averages, producers can now input facility-specific data, allowing a more tailored and accurate evaluation of lifecycle emissions.

Lou Hrkman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, said the update reflects the DOE's goal to "unleash American energy dominance by removing bureaucratic burdens," encouraging domestic hydrogen production and unlocking private investment opportunities.

The model plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for the Section 45V hydrogen production tax credit, which incentivizes low-emissions hydrogen development. It has also been adopted by the U.S. Department of the Treasury for official emissions evaluations.

Originally launched in 1994, the GREET® (Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies) model suite helps evaluate life cycle emissions across the energy and transportation sectors. The models are publicly available and widely used by industry, policymakers, and researchers.

Source: fuelcellsworks.com