Tasmania’s Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan (right) and project officials at the launch of the green hydrogen microgrid in Hobart. Photo: BECRC.
The first green hydrogen production facility and microgrid in Tasmania has been delivered by the state’s Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.
The facility comprises an innovative DC hydrogen microgrid which controls one of Australia’s largest electrolysers, and generates 100 per cent renewable, green hydrogen. It is designed to support research and training development for blue economy industries while providing commercial-scale hydrogen for industry and transport applications.
It is owned by the Blue Economy CRC (BECRC) and situated at BOC Australia in Lutana in Hobart. The hydrogen microgrid, microturbine and electrolyser infrastructure was acquired from Optimal Group and financed by Macquarie Bank, and BOC will operate and maintain the facility.
Tasmania’s Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan said the State Government welcomed the launch of the production facility and hydrogen microgrid.
“This facility is one of Australia’s largest electrolysers, generating up to 100 per cent renewable hydrogen, providing an alternative and reliable energy supply that could replace carbon-intensive fossil fuels and diesel across a range of industries,” he said.
“Our government has a goal to reach 200 per cent renewable electricity generation by 2040, and this facility is the start of building a sustainable green hydrogen sector to power our state for generations to come.
“The commencement of this project is also an important step forward in the application of hydrogen as a green fuel, helping to decarbonise our transport sector,” he added.
“Consistent with our Renewable Hydrogen Action Plan, this project is the latest step in making Tasmania’s green hydrogen sector a reality, and to position Tasmania to be a key player in this expanding market.
“This commercial-scale green hydrogen project highlights what can be achieved when industry, research and government work together to drive innovation.”
BECRC CEO Dr John Whittington said the launch was a pivotal moment for clean energy in the state and the nation.
“The launch of this facility marks the beginning of Tasmania’s green hydrogen production journey of discovery,” he said.
“We’re really looking to produce answers to some of our most important questions around hydrogen and its uses.
“This is a research facility and as we ramp up commercial production we will also better understand the role hydrogen can play and how it can support Australia’s blue economy.”
