Desert Oasis or Mirage? Cadiz's Bold Pivot to Green Hydrogen
Mojave, Friday, 15 November 2024.
I’m excited about Cadiz’s audacious plan to transform from water trader to clean energy pioneer in the Mojave. They’re repurposing Keystone XL pipes for a groundwater project and aiming to produce green hydrogen. It’s either brilliant or bonkers - and I can’t wait to see which!
A New Beginning in the Desert
Cadiz Inc.’s journey from a controversial water company to a potential leader in green energy is truly fascinating. For years, they tried to sell groundwater from the Mojave Desert, facing fierce criticism and resistance. But now, by partnering with RIC Energy, they’re setting their sights on the largest hydrogen production facility in California. This isn’t just a pivot; it’s a complete reinvention, aimed at turning past criticisms into future accolades.
Repurposing for the Future
In a move that seems straight out of a sci-fi novel, Cadiz is using 180 miles of steel pipe from the defunct Keystone XL Pipeline. This pipe, originally destined for oil, will now help transport water for their green hydrogen project. It’s a bold statement, repurposing a symbol of fossil fuel infrastructure for clean energy. Dave Archambault II, former chair of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, praised this shift as a vision for a better future[1].
The Mechanics of Green Hydrogen
At the heart of this project is the use of solar energy to produce hydrogen. By splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, Cadiz aims to create a renewable energy source that could power vehicles and plants across Southern California. This process, powered by the abundant Mojave sun, could redefine energy production in the region[2].
Controversy and Criticism
Yet, not everyone is convinced. Critics argue that using groundwater in an already arid region could harm local ecosystems. Conservationist Chris Clarke calls the plans ‘catastrophically wrongheaded,’ suggesting they might distract from environmental risks. The debate rages on, with Cadiz attempting to rebrand as an environmental justice enterprise[3].
The Vision of Susan Kennedy
Susan Kennedy, the politically connected CEO of Cadiz, believes in the company’s potential. With 45,000 acres of land bathed in sunlight, she sees an opportunity for massive clean energy development. Kennedy’s vision is not just about producing hydrogen but about creating a sustainable model for future generations[4].
The Road Ahead
As Cadiz moves forward, the stakes are high. With an $800 million groundwater bank project underway, backed by significant investments, the company is poised at a crossroads of innovation and controversy. Their success could redefine energy production and environmental justice in the Southwest or highlight the challenges of balancing development with conservation.