The Port of Newcastle and broader Hunter region are on track to become hydrogen-ready and contribute to Australia's transformation to net zero.
Supported by $100 million funding from the Albanese Government, the Port of Newcastle's Clean Energy Precinct has reached a major milestone signing agreements for key design work and environmental impact studies.
The precinct will renew a disused 220-hectare industrial site to facilitate clean energy production, storage, transmission, domestic distribution and international export.
The Government is supporting these latest studies along with the procurement and delivery of enabling works for the precinct. The project is being delivered in partnership with the NSW Government through a Federation Funding Agreement Schedule.
The Port of Newcastle plays an important economic role as a major deep-water global gateway.
The commencement of Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) studies follow previous work by the Port of Newcastle including public and industry engagement and feasibility studies. Formal community consultation and further industry engagement will now be undertaken by the Port.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"This Clean Energy Precinct demonstrates how legacy infrastructure can be repurposed towards making Australia a renewable energy superpower.
"Through our investment, we are supporting Australia's transition to net zero while creating jobs and economic opportunities in the Hunter region.
"The project will help position Australia as a global leader in technologies and products that reduce carbon emissions including hydrogen and green ammonia."
Quotes attributable to Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen:
"The Hunter has been industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a clean energy precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia's renewable resources to the world.
"The Albanese Labor Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with more affordable and reliable renewable energy."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:
"The Clean Energy Precinct is a major economic boost for our region."
"Newcastle and the Hunter have powered Australia for Generations. This project makes sure we will continue to do so for generations to come as we lead the transition to Net Zero."
"Establishing the Port as a hydrogen exporter will ensure good local jobs are protected and created into the future."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minster for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:
"The Hunter has powered our state for decades and we're ensuring it continues to do so for many years to come.
"Our energy market is transforming and we're playing a central role; this project will support almost 6,000 local jobs and add billions to the regional economy.
"Today's announcement will help ensure a bright future for the Hunter."
Quotes attributable to NSW Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:
"I've been working closely with the Port of Newcastle over the last ten years to support them in their diversification away from coal.
"With Newcastle's existing infrastructure and skilled workforce, there is no better place in NSW for this precinct."
Quotes attributable to Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmody:
"The Port of Newcastle Clean Energy Precinct is expected to support around 5,800 jobs throughout construction and provide new business growth and expanded career pathways for the region, adding an estimated $4.2 billion to the Hunter regional economy.
"The FEED and EIS studies will cover electrical infrastructure, water services, general infrastructure, storage, berth infrastructure and pipelines to berth. The studies will be completed by successful tenderers Lumea (electrical), coNEXA (water) and GHD (general infrastructure, storage, berth and pipelines), informing future site enablement, site layout and land platform design, which will be used to prepare concept planning approvals.
"Pending planning and legislative requirements and timeframes, our production partners, KEPCO, are expected to begin construction of facilities in 2027, with the precinct to be operational from 2030."
