The Australian Government has announced an agreement to invest $69.2 million to develop the Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub in Gladstone, advancing its regional hydrogen hubs program and renewable energy superpower vision.
The commitment follows the recently signed agreements for hydrogen hub investments in the Hunter Valley and South Australia’s Spencer Gulf.
According to the Federal Government, the investment also builds on previous legislation in Queensland authorising hydrogen pipeline infrastructure and a $1 billion investment in the Fitzroy to Gladstone water pipeline.
“This is a critical time for Queensland, as new industries emerge at rates not seen since the industrial revolution, driving growth and prosperity in the regions,” Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said.
Minister de Brenni stated that Queensland hydrogen is a global leader in reducing carbon emissions in sectors such as heavy haulage, shipping, and aviation while also fostering new industries and job creation.
“Thanks to Queensland’s combination of abundant natural resources and clear policy framework supporting green hydrogen, it’s estimated the industry will be worth $33 billion by 2040, boosting our economy, supporting jobs, and helping decarbonise the world,” Minister de Brenni added.
The Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub, set to generate 292,000 tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2031, is expected to create over 8,900 jobs in construction, trades, and engineering.
The commitment will be used to construct infrastructure such as a hydrogen electrolyser, pipeline, and underground hydrogen storage. The hub infrastructure will aid in the production and usage of hydrogen in Australia and around the world.
Stanwell Corporation will lead a consortium, with industry matching the Commonwealth’s contribution, bringing the total investment to at least $138 million.
The construction is set to commence in early 2021, with the project expected to be operational by mid-2027.
Additionally, the Federal Government has allocated funds for a 2.5-megawatt electrolyser at the Yarwun alumina refinery, aiming to deliver 300 tonnes of hydrogen annually and demonstrate hydrogen decarbonisation.
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) will collaborate with the government and industry to establish a Hydrogen Hub and a Hydrogen Centre for Excellence, enhancing clean energy education and training.
According to the Federal Government, Gladstone, with its strong energy export credentials, advanced manufacturing, and skilled workforce, can capitalise on the hydrogen industry.
“Gladstone has strong foundations to host a thriving hydrogen industry, creating thousands of local jobs and position Australia as a renewable energy superpower,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said.
“Renewable hydrogen will play a big role in our path to net zero, helping cut emissions in hard-to-abate sectors, and the manufacturing of green metals and other products the world needs.”
The Government’s Regional Hydrogen Hubs program is investing over $500,000 in hydrogen hubs in Gladstone, Townsville, Kwinana, the Pilbara, the Hunter, Bell Bay, and Port Bonython.
Australia’s hydrogen industry is expected to generate $50 billion in additional GDP by 2050, boosting regional jobs and transforming the country into a renewable energy superpower.
