Tasmania Pioneers Green Hydrogen: A Breakthrough in Clean Energy Innovation.

Courtesy of Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre (CRC)

Australia’s Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) has unveiled Tasmania’s pioneering green hydrogen production and research facility, marking a significant milestone in the region’s transition towards clean energy.

Advancing Hydrogen Research and Industry Applications

Located at BOC Australia’s Lutana site in Hobart, this facility is designed to support research, training, and development for industries linked to the blue economy. In addition to its role in advancing hydrogen research, the site will supply commercial-scale green hydrogen for industrial and transport applications.

The facility incorporates an innovative DC hydrogen microgrid, controlling one of Australia’s largest electrolysers. This advanced system is capable of generating 100% renewable green hydrogen and can replicate inputs from various renewable sources, including wind, solar, and ocean energy. Additionally, it can simulate real-world industrial energy demands, providing valuable insights into hydrogen applications.

Supporting Sustainable Transport and Energy Goals

With a production capacity of approximately 262 kilograms of hydrogen per day, the facility can generate enough fuel to operate two 22-meter hydrogen fuel cell-powered passenger ferries. These ferries, designed to carry up to 75 passengers, demonstrate the potential for hydrogen in decarbonising the maritime transport sector.

John Whittington, CEO of Blue Economy CRC, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “This facility is more than just a production site; it is a hub for research and discovery. While we are producing green hydrogen at a commercial scale, our primary goal is to explore key questions about hydrogen’s role in the energy landscape and its applications within Australia’s blue economy.”

Government Commitment to Renewable Energy

Nick Duigan, Tasmania’s Minister for Energy and Renewables, highlighted the government’s ambitious energy targets: “Our aim is to achieve 200% renewable electricity generation by 2040, and this facility represents a crucial step in establishing a sustainable green hydrogen sector. It also plays a key role in decarbonising transport and demonstrates the power of collaboration between industry, research institutions, and government to drive clean energy innovation.”

Industry Collaboration Driving Innovation

Theo Martin, Managing Director of Linde South Pacific and Head of BOC Australia, underscored the importance of industry expertise in supporting the project. “BOC is proud to be part of this initiative, bringing our expertise in hydrogen to Tasmania. This project sets the foundation for renewable hydrogen research and its practical implementation in the region.”

The project was delivered under the CRC program in collaboration with BOC Australia, the Tasmanian Government, pitt&sherry, Optimal Group, the University of Tasmania, Griffith University, and Hydro Tasmania. By fostering partnerships across government, industry, and academia, this initiative paves the way for a sustainable hydrogen future in Australia.