The Australian Government is investing up to $70 million in establishing the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub in North Queensland. This ambitious initiative, aligned with the government’s election promise, aims to foster job creation and sustainable energy development and position Australia at the forefront of the global hydrogen industry.
The project’s goal is to create a robust renewable hydrogen infrastructure, led by Edify Energy in collaboration with key partners such as Siemens Energy, Queensland TAFE, James Cook University, and Townsville Enterprise Limited. The initial phase is set to generate 800 tonnes of green hydrogen annually, fueling over 40 heavy vehicles each year. As the hub progresses, production is expected to increase to approximately 3,000 tonnes for domestic consumption and exceed 150,000 tonnes for international export.
Edify Energy, at the forefront of this venture, will establish a 17.6 MW domestic production facility with integrated renewable energy generation and battery storage. This facility will produce green hydrogen for local industries and emissions-free transportation, contributing to reducing carbon emissions.
The project is an environmental boon and a significant economic driver for the region. The initial construction phase will create at least 200 direct job opportunities for the local workforce, spanning various roles from electricians and plumbers to fitters and concreters. Furthermore, ongoing jobs in technical and engineering capacities will be available once the hub is operational, providing sustained employment opportunities.
Collaborating with industry bodies such as Siemens Energy, Queensland TAFE, James Cook University, and Townsville Enterprise Limited, Edify Energy emphasizes the importance of education and training. The aim is to ensure the local workforce is well-equipped with the necessary skills to contribute to and sustain the burgeoning hydrogen industry.
Construction of the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub is scheduled to commence next year, with completion anticipated in 2026. Initial commercial operations are expected to begin in 2027, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s transition to a hydrogen-driven future.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed determination: “We are investing half a billion dollars into regional hydrogen hubs all around Australia.” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen highlighted the transformative potential of renewable hydrogen, describing it as a game-changer supporting green metals, fertilizer, power, and industrial decarbonization.
Supported by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), which contributes $20.7 million, the project’s total investment exceeds $137 million. The remaining funding is sourced from industry stakeholders and the German Government.
