In the US, hydrogen production is overwhelming “gray” hydrogen, created via steam methane reforming (SMR) of fossil gas. Recently fossil hydrogen producers have attempted to rebrand themselves as “blue” hydrogen. For hydrogen production, this means counting not only emissions from the direct production of hydrogen but also those caused by the energy and materials used. Hydrogen producers engage in greenwashing by presenting high-emissions hydrogen as clean to co-opt generous federal subsidies like the 45V tax credit. ConclusionThe hydrogen production tax credit was not intended to enrich polluting industries.