Australia is making strides towards the implementation of its largest-ever $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart Program for renewable hydrogen, with the shortlisting of six applicants.
Notably, the shortlisted candidates are among the world’s largest renewable hydrogen projects, including Murchison’s 1625 MW project in WA and Stanwell’s 720 MW project in Queensland, collectively representing a substantial electrolyser capacity exceeding 3.5 GW across various applications.
According to the Federal Government, this marks a significant step in potentially transforming the country into a renewable energy hub, as large-scale production of renewable hydrogen is critical to Australia becoming a global hydrogen leader and the broad spread of shortlisted projects reflects the many hydrogen opportunities in Australia.
The selected applicants will now have the opportunity to submit comprehensive applications to access funding from the $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart Program, designed to provide revenue support for large-scale renewable hydrogen projects.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the shortlisting was a major milestone for the industry.
“We have the largest pipeline of renewable hydrogen projects in the world – Hydrogen Headstart is about supporting these projects to become a reality, as Australia transforms into a renewable energy superpower,” Bowen said.
“Renewable hydrogen is crucial to reach net zero, while creating economic opportunities for regional Australia.”
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