New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham revealed plans to attract fresh investments in hydrogen fuel development during a business summit in the Netherlands set for the upcoming week.
According to a press release issued on Friday 14 May, Governor Lujan Grisham has announced her intention to lead a delegation to an industry summit in Rotterdam to present New Mexico as an attractive hub for investment opportunities in the hydrogen industry. Last year, she led a similar initiative in Australia to meet entrepreneurs in the hydrogen sector.
Governor Lujan Grisham, has consistently advocated for hydrogen investments as a transitional energy source to replace fossil fuels, emphasizing its potential for cleaner energy in vehicles, manufacturing, and electricity generation.
While some environmentalists criticize hydrogen as a false solution due to its reliance on natural gas, certain groups in New Mexico oppose proposed state incentives for hydrogen development, fearing it would prolong natural gas reliance and strain water resources. However, hydrogen can also be produced through electrolysis, utilizing renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and nuclear power.
New Mexico, renowned for its significant energy production and extensive natural gas reserves, has recently made substantial investments in electrical transmission infrastructure to bolster renewable energy production from wind and solar sources.
Despite New Mexico’s bid, the Biden administration opted for projects based in California, Washington, Minnesota, Texas, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Illinois over a joint proposal from New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming for a share of $7 billion aimed at catalyzing hydrogen fuel development.
The hydrogen summit in Rotterdam boasts a lineup of public and private sponsors. Governor Lujan Grisham is accompanied by office staff, New Mexico cabinet secretaries for the environment and transportation, as well as her husband Manny Cordova. The New Mexico delegation also includes Rob Black, president of a statewide chamber of commerce.