The Albanese Government is investing $70 million to support the development of a hydrogen hub in Townsville, which will accelerate the growth of Australia's green hydrogen industry.
The competitive Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub program will provide funding for projects that promote the hydrogen industry in North Queensland. With matched funding, a total of $140 million will be invested in renewable hydrogen for use in fuel, energy generation and storage, and as a chemical feedstock.
The Townsville Hydrogen Hub will create jobs, support the transition to a clean energy economy, and promote decarbonization in sectors like industrial processing and transportation. The region's port facilities, workforce, and proximity to Asian trading partners make it an ideal location for a green hydrogen hub.
The government has invested over $525 million in hydrogen hubs, including the $454 million Regional Hydrogen Hubs program for projects in areas such as Gladstone, the Hunter Valley, the Pilbara, Port Bonython, and Bell Bay.
Additionally, $89.5 million is being invested to assist the transportation sector in transitioning to hydrogen, including through the establishment of hydrogen refueling stations on major freight routes.
By 2050, the hydrogen industry in Australia could potentially generate an additional $50 billion in GDP and create over 16,000 jobs, as well as additional employment opportunities from the construction of renewable energy infrastructure to support the production of green hydrogen.
Eligible applicants for the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub program include those involved in hydrogen production, consumption, and export across industrial, transportation, and energy markets. Guidelines can be found at: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/regional-hydrogen-hubs-townsville-region.
Grants ranging from $30 million to $70 million will be available through an open and competitive application process, set to open in March 2023. The application process will consist of two stages, with an initial open competition followed by a formal application process for shortlisted applicants.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water will host an information session for potential applicants in the near future.
