A coalition involving Queensland generator Stanwell and Japan’s largest hydrogen supplier Iwatani will begin a $10.4 million feasibility study into the establishment of a large-scale renewable hydrogen factory in Gladstone, with four new participants.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it was a step forward in Queensland’s quest to become a renewable hydrogen superpower.
“Land has also been acquired for a three-gigawatt project in Aldoga, west of Gladstone, since we originally announced the groundbreaking partnership between Iwatani and the publicly-owned Stanwell,” the Premier said.
“Now, with four additional members, the collaboration is strengthening, and a full investigation will advance efforts to tap into the vast potential energy export industry.”
The consortium’s announcement, which includes Japanese companies Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kansai Electric Power Company, and Marubeni, as well as an Australian energy infrastructure company, APA Group, demonstrates international confidence in Queensland’s growing reputation as a prime location for renewable hydrogen projects.
Energy, Renewable Energy, and Hydrogen Minister The partnership brought together high-calibre expertise across the hydrogen supply chain, including renewable energy, hydrogen generation, liquefaction, shipping, and offtake, according to Mick de Brenni.
By 2026, the project hopes to export renewable hydrogen to Japan as well as provide large industrial customers in Central Queensland to help reduce emissions in domestic industry.
“In addition to the feasibility research, Stanwell will conduct a workforce and manufacturing development study in regional Queensland, because we want regional Queenslanders to have decent, secure jobs supplying renewable hydrogen to the rest of the globe.
“The Stanwell-Iwatani project has the ability to secure the future of both Queensland’s local supply chain and hydrogen export to Japan.”
Mr. de Brenni also thanked the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry for their financial support on a national and international level.
Glenn Butcher, Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Minister for Water, and Member for Gladstone, said the MOU provided another chance for Gladstone to solidify its position as Australia’s hydrogen capital.
“Gladstone has already shown to be a powerhouse in terms of LNG exports, and the burgeoning hydrogen industry reflects the region’s long-term future “Mr. Butcher explained.
“As the industry expands, it will create stable jobs in renewable energy in Gladstone, as well as significant supply chain opportunities for businesses throughout Central Queensland.”
Rob Wheals, CEO and Managing Director of the APA Group, expressed his delight at the opportunity to continue to support a lower-carbon future and high-quality infrastructure solutions.
“Queensland has some of Australia’s top solar and wind resources, putting it in a strong position to not just establish an export hydrogen supply chain, but also to illustrate the benefits of harnessing renewable hydrogen in our communities,” Mr Wheals said.
“Australia has significant hydrogen advantages, and this project might be a game-changer in assisting Queensland in developing a large-scale hydrogen industry.”
Stanwell Acting Chief Executive Officer Adam Aspinall said the company was excited to collaborate with some of the best in the business on the development of Central Queensland’s large-scale renewable hydrogen industry.
“Stanwell is ecstatic to be spearheading the growth of Queensland’s next great industry,” says Stanwell. Mr Aspinall stated, “We believe hydrogen has a significant role to play in ensuring power security and dependability, as well as increasing renewable energy integration and investment in Queensland.”
“While there is still a long way to go before hydrogen becomes commercially viable, engagement with key partners from across the supply chain is crucial to lowering the cost of hydrogen technologies and advancing the sector.
“It’s wonderful to think that Queensland’s own energy plants and ports may help meet global hydrogen demand while also supplying local industry.”
