Background Information

DOE is launching the GUIDE-H2 Competition to increase practitioner experience applying analytic methods and developing guidelines, consistent frameworks, and best practices to assess real-world, clean hydrogen energy projects. Applicants will develop and/or utilize innovative frameworks for methodical sustainability assessments and evaluate real-world, planned, or conceptual hydrogen projects based on their economic, social, and environmental impacts for hydrogen production, distribution, and end use, aiming to ensure both near-term project viability and long-term sustainability. These case studies will be used to develop guidelines and best practices to inform and improve future real-world projects to realize optimal success across economic, societal, environmental, and other relevant factors.

The GUIDE-H2 Competition is split into two phases. In Phase I, competitors will propose an innovative, comprehensive approach for assessing a real, planned or theoretical commercial hydrogen deployment project as a case study. Phase I winning teams will be eligible to compete in Phase II. In Phase II, winning teams will conduct the proposed project assessment and craft a case study that details their innovative approach and results, including a summary of best practices that could be emulated in real-world deployments. At the end of Phase II, up to three winning teams will be invited to attend and present at high-profile venues such as Clean Energy Ministerial roundtables, webinars, and the DOE Hydrogen Program Annual Merit Review in Washington, D.C.

‍

The GUIDE-H2 Competition offers a total award pool of $200,000 across the two phases. Up to six Phase I winning teams will receive $10,000 each. In Phase II, up to three winning teams will receive $20,000 for third place, $40,000 for second place, and $80,000 for first place.

‍

‍

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants include individuals; private entities (for-profits and nonprofits); non-federal government entities such as states, counties, tribes, and municipalities; and academic institutions.

‍

‍

Important Dates

Phase I Applications are due on June 30, 2025. Phase II applications are due on April 22, 2026.

‍

With the increasing number of opportunities of interest to CTE and our members, we are not able to pursue projects to the same extent as we have in the past. However, if you are interested in pursuing funding under this opportunity, CTE may be able to support your application through our Grant Writing as a Service program. If you have questions regarding this program please contact Wendy Morgan ([email protected]).

‍