South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas is set to promote the state’s green hydrogen project during his four-day trade mission in Europe.
The premier aims to meet potential investors in Berlin and Rotterdam before delivering a keynote speech at the World Hydrogen Summit in the Netherlands. As a global leader behind the new industry, Mr Malinauskas will argue that the world must use green hydrogen, ammonia, and green steel to reach net-zero emissions.
South Australia’s push for green hydrogen comes as other Australian states, such as Queensland and Western Australia, also compete to become hydrogen hubs. However, South Australia is uniquely positioned to lead the way, with plans to build a world-leading hydrogen power plant, electrolyser, and storage facility in Whyalla, at the heart of the state’s future economy.
The $600m hydrogen jobs plan is part of a $20b pipeline of renewable energy projects. A global market call has attracted 29 proposals, with a detailed and complex evaluation process underway to award contracts early in the second half of 2023.
The premier’s visit to Europe aims to attract investments from the biggest players in hydrogen and green steel manufacturing, with Germany as the leader in green hydrogen in Europe. Germany’s push for green hydrogen comes as the region tries to decarbonize and wean itself off Russian gas.
In Rotterdam, the premier will also address the World Energy Storage Forum amid strong investor interest in the state for renewable energy and storage. Located close to transmission infrastructure, the new industrial hub is also near high-quality southern and central wind zones – a renewable energy source critical for commercial green hydrogen production.
The federal government has pledged $25m for developing the deep-sea port to support future industries, with Liberty Steel already announcing plans to use natural gas and green hydrogen instead of coal-based steelmaking at Whyalla.
“The world needs clean energy, and South Australia is uniquely positioned to lead the way,” Mr Malinauskas said. “It is vital we make sure we are meeting face-to-face with the key players across both government and private industry to present our vision and maximize the investment opportunities for South Australia.”
The potential impact of South Australia’s green hydrogen project is immense, with the state being well-placed to provide renewable energy to the Asia-Pacific region, which is expected to drive global hydrogen demand over the next few decades. Green hydrogen production has the potential to revolutionize the world’s energy systems and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
However, there are potential challenges, such as the need for significant investments in infrastructure to support the transition to a hydrogen-based economy. There is also a need to ensure that green hydrogen production is environmentally sustainable and does not contribute to deforestation, water scarcity, or other environmental issues.
In conclusion, South Australia’s green hydrogen project is a significant step towards achieving net-zero emissions and combating climate change. The premier’s trade mission to Europe is an opportunity to attract investments and promote the state’s vision for a sustainable future. However, it is essential to ensure that green hydrogen production is environmentally sustainable and does not contribute to other environmental problems.
