Fortescue Metals and ATCO Australia have signed an agreement to explore the deployment of hydrogen vehicle fuelling infrastructure in Western Australia.
The agreement will see Fortescue and ATCO build and operate a combined hydrogen production and refuelling facility at ATCO’s existing facility in Jandakot in the Perth metropolitan area, with the possibility of wider deployment across the State.
Fortescue said the initial refuelling facility will provide the two companies, as well as approved third parties, with the opportunity to refuel vehicles capable of utilising hydrogen as the primary fuel source, including a fleet of Toyota Mirai fuel cell electric vehicles which have been made available by Toyota Motor Corporation Australia.
Fortescue Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Gaines said the project will serve ‘as a showcase for hydrogen mobility in WA’ and support the transition to the next generation of zero-emission transport.
“As the world moves towards a lower carbon future, hydrogen has the potential to play a key role in the future energy mix and we want to ensure we remain at the forefront of Australia’s renewable hydrogen industry,” Ms Gaines added.
“Identifying and establishing partnerships is critical to unlocking the future potential of hydrogen and we look forward to working with ATCO to capitalise on the economic opportunities associated with hydrogen and support the development of a competitive hydrogen industry.”
ATCO Managing Director in Australia Pat Creaghan said the company’s Clean Energy Innovation Hub has been generating and testing the use of renewable hydrogen for more than six months in gas blending and power applications.
“The Hub provides a fantastic base from which to partner with Fortescue to contribute to Western Australia’s burgeoning renewable hydrogen industry,” Mr Creaghan continued.
“We look forward to working with Fortescue capitalise on Western Australia’s natural advantages for the benefit of the environment, the economy and the community.”
Toyota Australia Manager of Future Technologies and Mobility Matt MacLeod said the announcement demonstrates ‘a clear commitment to hydrogen energy in Australia and this emerging economic sector’.
“We congratulate both companies on this innovative approach to their joint vision for the future of zero emissions transportation,” Mr Macleod continued.
“This partnership sets a strong foundation to support the introduction of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles into Australia and we look forward to exploring the opportunities that will develop in the future.”
