As announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Australia’s deepwater global gateway, Port of Newcastle, is partnering with Macquarie Group’s Green Investment Group (GIG) and the Commonwealth Government’s Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to support the development of a hydrogen economy in the Hunter Region.
Port of Newcastle and GIG have launched a $A3 million feasibility study into the development of a green hydrogen hub at the Port that includes the backing of a $A1.5 million funding grant from ARENA, secured under its Advancing Renewables Program.
The hub, called the Port of Newcastle Hydrogen Hub, will initially be underpinned by a 40 MW electrolyser that over time would increase to a capacity of over 1 GW, said in a statement.
The project, one of several green hydrogen/ammonia schemes announced in Australia in recent years will focus on green hydrogen for domestic and export use.
Port of Newcastle and GIG have also signed Memoranda of Understanding with Idemitsu, Keolis Downer, Lake Macquarie City Council, Snowy Hydro and Jemena, all of whom will participate in the feasibility study.
Port of Newcastle Chair, Professor Roy Green, said a green hydrogen hub in the Hunter, underpinned by a 40 MW electrolyser, would support the development of new industries in the region and contribute to Australia’s long-term economic and energy security, as well as creating local jobs during construction and operations.
Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmody, said “We are delighted that ARENA has decided to partner with us for this important feasibility study into the Port of Newcastle Hydrogen Hub Project.”
“It makes sense for the Port of Newcastle to play a substantial role in Australia’s bid to become a significant renewable exporter. With our existing access to global energy supply chains, world-class infrastructure, strong industry partnerships, proximity to the existing demand, links to domestic road and rail networks, a local highly skilled workforce and proximity to renewable energy zones, Port of Newcastle is well placed to develop a hydrogen hub and export hydrogen as a tradable energy commodity,” Professor Roy Green added.
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