Fortescue, a leading global player in green hydrogen production, celebrated a significant milestone with the commencement of its $550 million venture into green hydrogen production in the United States. The company held a soil turn ceremony and renamed its green hydrogen facility in Buckeye, Arizona to Arizona Hydrogen, marking the first of Fortescue’s planned green energy investments in North America.
Dr. Andrew Forrest AO, Executive Chair and Founder of Fortescue, commended the Biden Administration’s commitment to the energy transition while emphasizing the need for further progress. He highlighted Fortescue’s role as a first-mover in the green energy space and expressed concerns about proposed regulations that could impede the industry’s growth.
The Arizona Hydrogen project is expected to create significant economic opportunities during its construction and operation phases. According to new economic data from NDP Analytics, the facility could generate up to 2,244 jobs during construction, contributing $124.2 million in wages and adding $187.8 million to Arizona’s GDP. Additionally, during the operational phase, the facility is projected to employ 40 people directly, with the potential to create 431 jobs and contribute $29.3 million in wages annually.
Arizona Hydrogen aims to produce up to 11,000 tons of liquid green hydrogen annually, playing a crucial role in decarbonizing the heavy-duty transportation sector in the southwest market. The project has received praise from local leaders, including Governor Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community and Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn, who welcomed the investment as a step towards a more sustainable future.
Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, lauded Fortescue’s commitment to Arizona and emphasized the state’s position as a national leader in clean energy technologies. She expressed gratitude for Fortescue’s investment and pledged continued support for the company’s long-term success in Buckeye.
