The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
The Hon Mick de Brenni, Tasmanian Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen
The Albanese Government has taken another major step forward for delivering its regional hydrogen hubs program and its vision as a renewable energy superpower, by reaching agreement to invest $69.2 million to develop the Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub in Gladstone.
It follows the recent agreements struck by the Albanese Government for hydrogen hub investments in the Hunter Valley and SA's Spencer Gulf.
It also builds on progress in Queensland with the recent passing of legislation enabling hydrogen pipeline infrastructure and an investment of $1 billion to construct the Fitzroy to Gladstone water pipeline.
The Hub will create over 8,900 jobs including roles in construction, trades and engineering.
It could produce up to 292,000 tonnes of hydrogen a year by 2031, equivalent to fuelling more than double Australia's heavy vehicle fleet.
This investment will build infrastructure including a hydrogen electrolyser, pipeline, and underground hydrogen storage. The hub infrastructure will help support hydrogen production and use in Australia and overseas.
The consortium will be led by the Stanwell Corporation, with industry matching the Commonwealth's contribution - bringing total investment to at least $138 million.
Importantly, construction will commence early next year, with the project operational in mid-2027.
In addition, the Commonwealth has previously announced funding for a 2.5 megawatt electrolyser at Yarwun alumina refinery, which aims to deliver around 300 tonnes of hydrogen annually and demonstrate the use of hydrogen in the decarbonisation of alumina refining.
CQUniversity will partner with government and industry to support the Hydrogen Hub and will play a key role in delivering a Hydrogen Centre for Excellence, boosting future education and training in clean energy.
The regions that have always powered Australia and the world, are the same regions that will continue to power the world for generations to come - with the right investment.
Gladstone can reap the rewards of a hydrogen industry, with it's existing energy export credentials, extensive port and rail infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and highly skilled workforce.
The government's Regional Hydrogen Hubs program is delivering over half a billion dollars for hydrogen hubs in Gladstone, Townsville, Kwinana, the Pilbara, the Hunter, Bell Bay and Port Bonython.
Australia's hydrogen industry is projected to generate $50 billion in additional GDP by 2050, creating tens of thousands of jobs in regional Australia as Australia transforms to a renewable energy superpower.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:
"Central Queensland is an energy export powerhouse and has helped keep the lights on for decades, and as global markets shift - it can reap the benefits of new industries like hydrogen too.
"Gladstone has strong foundations to host a thriving hydrogen industry, creating thousands of local jobs and position Australia as a renewable energy superpower.
"Renewable hydrogen will play a big role in our path to net zero, helping cut emissions in hard-to-abate sectors, and the manufacturing of green metals and other products the world needs."
Quotes attributable to the Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni:
"This is a critical time for Queensland, as new industries emerge at rates not seen since the industrial revolution, driving growth and prosperity in the regions.
"We know Queensland hydrogen is a global game changer in slashing carbon emissions in hard-to-abate sectors, including major industry, heavy haulage, shipping and aviation, while fast tracking new industries and jobs.
"Thanks to Queensland's combination of abundant natural resources and clear policy framework supporting green hydrogen, it's estimated the industry will be worth $33 billion by 2040, boosting our economy, supporting jobs, and helping decarbonise the world."
