The Federal and South Australian governments have announced a joint $100 million investment in the development of the Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub near Whyalla, which will serve as Australia’s first large-scale export terminal for hydrogen by 2030.
The redevelopment of Port Bonython is expected to create more jobs in the region and help bring the country a step closer to becoming a renewable energy superpower, the Federal Government said in a media release.
The port will host projects up to $13 billion and generate approximately 1.8 million tonnes of hydrogen by 2030.
As part of its efforts to develop a hydrogen industry in the Spencer Gulf, the SA government recently launched its Hydrogen Jobs Plan, which will include the development of a hydrogen electrolyser, power station, and storage facility.
Through the Net Zero Economy Agency and review of the National Hydrogen Strategy, the Australian Government said it will look into what is required to facilitate hydrogen supply chains.
“We’re working with the Malinauskas Government to develop the Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub, which will support regional jobs and take us a step closer to becoming a renewable energy superpower,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“The global shift to clean energy and decarbonised economies is a huge economic opportunity for Australia. We are determined to grasp this opportunity and are investing half a billion dollars into regional hydrogen hubs all around Australia.”
South Australia boasts expanses of available land and an abundance of solar and wind resources, making it well-positioned towards becoming a world-class, low-cost hydrogen supplier.
“We’re working closely with industry to maximise this opportunity to grow a new industry, which has potential to create thousands of jobs and improve the standard of living for South Australians for generations to come,” said Premier Peter Malinauskas.
The Australian national government is investing over half a billion dollars in the development of regional hydrogen hubs, including in Pilbara, Kwinana, Gladstone, Townsville, the Hunter, Bell Bay and Upper Spencer Gulf.
The latest Commonwealth Budget budget includes a $2 billion allocation for a new Hydrogen Headstart program to scale up the development of Australia’s renewable hydrogen industry.
