The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced a $70 million Renewable Hydrogen Deployment Funding Round to help fast-track the development of renewable hydrogen in Australia.
Chief Executive of ARENA, Darren Miller said the funding round aimed to support two or more large-scale renewable hydrogen projects.
Mr Miller said the projects would involve some of the largest electrolysers in the world.
“Each project must be powered by renewable electricity, either directly or through power purchase agreements or large scale generation certificates,” Mr Miller said.
He said ARENA was inviting expressions of interest for projects across a range of industries and end uses.
“Shortlisted projects will be invited to submit full applications later in 2020, with the aim of awarding funding by the end of the year.”
Mr Miller said the Renewable Hydrogen Deployment Funding Round followed the release of the National Hydrogen Strategy last year and was in line with the Government’s focus on growing an innovative, safe and competitive hydrogen industry.
“The funding round will also help to stimulate jobs and economic growth through the application stage of the funding round as well as the construction and ongoing operation of projects,” Mr Miller said.
He said hydrogen was currently used in the industrial and chemical sectors and was derived primarily from natural gas.
“In the future, hydrogen will be used in a range of applications including industrial processes, household appliances, remote power, transport, for greening or storing energy in our existing gas network,” Mr Miller said.
“Australia is well placed to become a major renewable hydrogen producer and exporter.”
Expressions of interest are open until 26 May with more information at this PS News link.
