Speaker lays out energy plan
Energy package to embrace hydrogen technology
Contributed by
Office of the Speaker, South Carolina
House of Representatives

Speaker Bobby Harrell, SC House of Representatives

House Speaker Bobby Harrell, accompanied by several other members of the House and leaders in the hydrogen energy movement in South Carolina, announced the pre-filing of new energy legislation.

The proposed legislation is aimed at getting the private sector involved in the already existing hydrogen energy infrastructure we have set up in our state.

"This plan is centered around two things - developing a clean alternative fuel and creating jobs for our citizens," Speaker Harrell said. "For this to happen, we need to encourage private sector involvement in this field. A small investment here could turn our State into a major leader in an industry that is expected to be over $2.6 trillion dollars in the next few decades. South Carolina has the resources and opportunity to be a major player in the world- wide hydrogen technology market, this legislation will help us get there."

South Carolina has long been working toward a hydrogen energy solution for our state, and for our nation. The combined work of Savannah River Site, the University of South Carolina and their fuel cell research center, and Clemson University and International Center for Automotive Research (ICAR) along with South Carolina State University have helped spearhead the movement.

Clemson University President Jim Barker said, "Clemson University applauds Speaker Harrell's proposed legislation on hydrogen research. Through CU-ICAR and other initiatives, Clemson will focus on integration of novel hydrogen technology into automobiles and in developing a hydrogen fueling infrastructure and workforce to support the hydrogen economy of the future."

The energy package includes incentives that will help encourage companies to come to South Carolina. Creates a fund for targeted, high profile investment that will lead to job creation. Encourages the continued collaborative efforts of the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, South Carolina State University, Savannah River Site and the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Alliance.