Western Australia's first green hydrogen facilities were given the green light following recent assessments and inspections by Dangerous Goods Officers from the Department of Mines Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS)' Worksafe Petroleum Safety and Dangerous Goods Directorate.
The new green hydrogen power station in Denham, and hydrogen refuelling stations in Jandakot and Hazelmere, and various vehicle transport systems (including a hydrogen bus fuelling station, hydrogen transport trailers and ammonia powered locomotives) were licensed and inspected under the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004.
DMIRS Principal Inspector Daryl Colgan said with the increasing global demand for the production of green energy there is unprecedented interest in the development of green hydrogen, green ammonia and bio-fuel facilities.
"The first small scale projects are now operational," Mr Colgan said.
"Our recent inspections have demonstrated that when we work closely with industry from the start of a project, including before a location is chosen, the safety outcomes are significantly better for both the business and community."
Horizon Power Project Manager Renato Pascucci said the early engagement with DMIRS' Dangerous Goods Directorate and comprehensive assessment of their Denham Hydrogen Demonstration Plant, provided valuable insights into the installation, highlighting areas for improvement, and identifying potential risks.
Mr Colgan said the positive feedback from industry, such as Horizon Power, is very important in the development of WA's green fuels industry.
"It shows we have the right systems in place and expertise to ensure the larger multi-million-dollar projects - expected to start in the next few years - also operate in a safe and sustainable manner."
The Dangerous Goods Directorate has produced a guide to managing hydrogen for industry. Additional information is available under the Dangerous Goods section.
Western Australia and green fuels
Western Australia has many competitive advantages in the growing global renewable hydrogen market. This includes world-class renewable energy resources, vast land mass, established energy infrastructure and a dependable history of exporting energy to international markets.
The State Government is investing almost $90 million to drive the development of a renewable hydrogen industry. The WA Renewable Hydrogen Strategy sets out the strategic areas of focus for the development of the hydrogen industry, including exports, remote applications, hydrogen blending in natural gas networks and transport.
