Australia has committed $283million(approximatelyUS188 million) to support a significant green hydrogen project spearheaded by explosives maker Orica. The initiative aims to ramp up the production of renewable energy and significantly lower pollution from industrial operations, reports Anewz.
The project, known as the Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub, is planned for Kooragang Island in New South Wales. It will utilize recycled water and electricity from renewable sources to produce hydrogen using a 50-megawatt machine called an electrolyzer. While construction was initially expected to begin in 2025, it was delayed when previous partner Origin Energy pulled out due to concerns about costs. The facility is now anticipated to be up and running by 2028.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) stated that this project will play a key role in making heavy industries cleaner by replacing hydrogen made from fossil fuels with environmentally friendly alternatives. The plant will initially produce 4,700 tons of hydrogen annually – roughly 12 tons each day. This hydrogen will primarily be used within Australia to produce cleaner versions of ammonia and ammonium nitrate, which are vital ingredients in agriculture, healthcare, and other industries.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen highlighted Australia’s unique position to develop a green hydrogen industry capable of supplying other countries. While exporting green hydrogen is a future goal, the initial operations of the hub will be driven by the needs within Australia.
