CNX, KeyState Energy to Build Hydrogen, SAF Hub at Pittsburgh Airport

CNX Resources and KeyState Energy have partnered to deliver a production hub at PIT to help accelerate the local hydrogen and SAF industries, lower transportation costs, and decarbonize the aviation sector. The proposed facility can produce hydrogen up to 68,000 metric tons per year or SAF up to 70 million gallons annually. It can also produce both products simultaneously at lower volumes and offers the flexibility to customize production for specific requirements.

The partners signed a letter of intent for the $1.5 billion project that is expected to support 3,000 construction jobs in the development phase, contingent on the Department of Treasury’s decision to establish a pathway to low-carbon intensity fugitive coal mine methane under the 45V Hydrogen Production Tax Credit. They are also assessing potential SAF markets in the aviation industry and clean hydrogen for regional heavy trucks and equipment, power generation, and applications within hard-to-abate sectors.

Construction at Pittsburgh International Airport; Image Credits: HDR

"As the only state to secure two regional clean hydrogen hubs, the future of clean energy is running through Pennsylvania, and as we build out these hydrogen hubs over the next several years, we'll see more innovation, job creation, and opportunity coming to our Commonwealth," said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. "We're proving that you don't have to choose between protecting the planet and protecting jobs – and the partnership between KeyState Energy, CNX Resources, and Pittsburgh International Airport will create thousands of jobs and cut fuel costs for airlines, all while reducing pollution and making our communities safer and healthier."

According to a 2021 study from the DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory, building and operating a gas-to-liquids SAF hub at PIT is possible with onsite gas production and net-zero or net-negative greenhouse gas emissions feedstocks. The partners are also seeking a federal grant to perform a logistics study on a project hub and transportation network investment strategy. The transportation of SAF will be examined in various modes, such as existing or constructing new pipeline infrastructure, barge, and rail.

"Increasing SAF and hydrogen production in the U.S. is a necessary first step in reducing carbon output to meet upcoming industry goals, helping aviation earn its right to grow and moving further toward a cleaner, greener future,” said Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis. “We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, CNX and KeyState Energy, in cementing Pittsburgh International Airport and our region as a global leader in sustainable energy."