The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Fuel Cell Technologies Office has issued a request for information (RFI) to obtain feedback from stakeholders regarding the construction and benefits of a National Hydrogen Technology Showcase and Training (HyTeST) station. The facility would serve as a tool for research and development, testing, safety and demonstration training, and outreach for community and commercial early adopters, including station developers, owners, code officials, first responders, operators, investors, and insurers.

With fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) currently being sold or leased to consumers in California, and plans announced for the introduction of hydrogen stations in the Northeast, it is important to manage the risk and improve safety practices associated with hydrogen fueling stations. DOE is considering constructing a national HyTeST facility to showcase the technologies being deployed in commercial hydrogen refueling stations around the world, and to conduct training, testing, and outreach to speed public acceptance and commercial adoption. The facility will support hydrogen technology deployment activities in California and, ultimately, in other regions.

The HyTeST station will also directly support DOE's own Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure Research and Station Technology (H2FIRST) project, which aims to ensure that FCEV customers have a positive fueling experience similar to conventional gasoline/diesel stations. H2FIRST leverages capabilities at the national laboratories to address the technology challenges related to hydrogen refueling stations. The HyTeST station will complement the facility at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado.

For details, see the RFI announcement DE-FOA-0001555 or email questions about the RFI to FY16FCTONeedsandStrategies@ee.doe.gov with "question" in the subject line. RFI responses must be received no later than 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on July 22, 2016. This RFI is not a funding opportunity announcement; therefore, DOE is not accepting applications for funding regarding this topic at this time.