The Australian and Western Australian Governments have finalised a $140 million agreement to build a hydrogen hub in the Pilbara.
Upon completion, the Pilbara Hydrogen Hub will be a major centre for clean hydrogen production and export with the potential to become an international gateway to Australian-made green steel and iron.
According to the WA Government, a planned pipeline could enable hydrogen production of around 492,000 tonnes per year – enough to power 26,000 heavy vehicles for an entire year.
The Pilbara region is known for the huge quad roadtrain combinations that service the mines in this area.
Fortescue Metals Group has in recent years showcased the capabilities of hydrogen fuel cell coaches with up to an 800km range. The challenge for higher mass loads on trucks is, however, a very different beast.
WA Premier Roger Cook said the Pilbara Hydrogen Hub is a key part of the State Government’s plan to turn the state into a global clean energy powerhouse.
“When it comes to producing and exporting world-leading products at a global scale, WA leads the way,” he said.
“This project will be WA-produced hydrogen on Asia’s doorstep, helping to strengthen and diversify our economy for the future.”
The Australian Government’s $70 million investment is part of its Regional Hubs program, which is investing over $500 million to build hubs at key locations such as Kwinana, Gladstone, Townsville, Bell Bay, Port Bonython and the Hunter.
The combined $140 million investment will help build infrastructure to support hydrogen exports and renewable energy production, as well as fund activities for a Clean Energy Training and Research Institute.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said the hub would ensure the Pilbara’s future as a major energy producer and exporter.
“This hub will bring a new clean energy industry to the Pilbara, supporting the region’s world-class industries well into the future,” he said.
“WA is already a global mining and export powerhouse, and it’s now primed to become a world-leading hydrogen supplier as well.”
Construction on a road and intersection will start this year, with the hub becoming operational in mid-2028.
.jpg){kind=small}
IMG_7464.jpeg)
