The Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct (CEP) has hit a major milestone, moving forward with signed agreements for Front End Engineering Designs (FEED) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) covering vital infrastructure like electricity, water, storage, pipelines, and berth facilities.
These agreements, backed by a $100 million grant from the Commonwealth Government, aim to make the Port hydrogen-ready, a key step in the region’s push toward clean energy.
When fully realized, the CEP is expected to contribute a staggering $4.2 billion to the region and generate around 5,800 jobs by 2040. It will also align with the New South Wales Government’s decarbonization efforts under the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, boosting renewable energy production, storage, and investment opportunities.
Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, joined the announcement, noting that the Clean Energy Precinct will secure Newcastle’s future role in powering the country, not just for today, but for generations to come. By positioning the Port as a hub for hydrogen export, it ensures that local jobs will remain protected while new ones are created.
Key partners Lumea (electricity), CoNEXA (water), and GHD (general infrastructure) are leading the FEED and EIS studies. These will help shape the site’s development and secure necessary environmental planning approvals. The precinct will ultimately enable the production, storage, and distribution of clean energy, including green hydrogen and ammonia, positioning Newcastle as a clean energy leader.