Australia’s Good Earth Green Hydrogen and Ammonia (GEGHA) project, aimed at producing green hydrogen for agricultural use, has secured a substantial funding boost of AUD 23.6 million (approximately EUR 14.1 million) from the New South Wales Government.
The ambitious GEGHA initiative revolves around the establishment of an electrolysis facility designed for green hydrogen production. This facility will be strategically located on a cotton plantation near Moree, a town in New South Wales.
Key features of the project include a 27 MW solar park that will power the electrolysis plant. The green hydrogen produced here will serve a variety of crucial purposes, including fueling the irrigation system, replacing traditional fossil fuels like diesel and LPG in agricultural machinery, and meeting the energy requirements of cotton drying facilities.
One notable aspect of the GEGHA project is its intention to convert a portion of the generated hydrogen into anhydrous ammonia (NH3), a valuable agricultural fertilizer. The project aims to produce approximately 3,800 tons of ammonia, which will effectively replace the need for 6,800 tons of imported urea, a significant step toward reducing dependency on imported fertilizers.
The GEGHA program is planned to be executed in three distinct phases. Upon reaching full operational capacity, it is anticipated to prevent the emission of approximately 20,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. Furthermore, the 27 MW photovoltaic park will not only power the hydrogen production process but also contribute energy for seasonal cotton ginning operations. Any surplus electricity generated will be fed back into the grid, promoting sustainable energy practices.
Australia’s commitment to green hydrogen doesn’t stop at the GEGHA project. The Australian government has recently initiated the Hydrogen Headstart program, a substantial $2 billion investment endeavor aimed at fostering the large-scale development of green hydrogen within the country. These initiatives collectively mark significant strides toward achieving sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices and reducing carbon emissions in the region.
