New hydrogen hub to be developed in Western Australia

Business Developments & Projects

February 20, 2024, by Aida Čučuk

The Albanese and Cook Governments have finalized a $140 million agreement to build a hydrogen hub in Western Australia (WA), specifically in the Pilbara, on the traditional lands of the Ngarluma and Kariyarra people. This also includes Murujuga, where the Traditional Custodians are represented by the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation.

According to the WA government, the Pilbara hydrogen hub will be a major center for hydrogen production and export, with the potential to become an international gateway to Australian-made green steel and iron.

The hub is expected to support almost 1000 direct and indirect jobs, including for builders, concreters, electricians, plumbers, fitters and technicians.

Construction on the road and intersection will start this year, with the hub becoming operational in mid-2028, the government revealed, adding that a planned pipeline could enable hydrogen production of around 492,000 tons per year, which is enough to decarbonize existing ammonia production on the Burrup Peninsula.

The government noted that the $140 million investment ($70 million each from the Commonwealth and WA government) will help build infrastructure to support hydrogen exports and renewable energy production, as well as fund activities for the Clean Energy Training and Research Institute, which is expected to provide practical, job-focused training in renewable energy and hydrogen for Pilbara residents, including First Nations people.

Commenting on the agreement, Western Australian Premier Roger Cook said the hub is a key part of his government’s plan to turn WA into a global clean energy powerhouse, adding: “This project will be WA-produced hydrogen on Asia’s doorstep, helping to strengthen and diversify our economy for the future.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen stated: “This hub will bring a new clean energy industry to the Pilbara, supporting the region’s world-class industries well into the future.”

To note, the Australian government’s investment is part of its Regional Hydrogen Hubs program, which is investing over half a billion dollars to build hubs at key locations like Kwinana, Gladstone, Townsville, Bell Bay, Port Bonython and the Hunter.