Tasmania, known for its pristine natural beauty, is setting its sights on becoming a major player in the green hydrogen industry.
A joint feasibility study conducted by the Tasmanian Government and the Rotterdam Port Authority has identified Tasmania as a potential green hydrogen powerhouse, with world-class conditions for production, domestic use, and export. The study paves the way for Tasmania to become a green hydrogen exporter by 2030, with the Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest energy importer, as its primary destination.
As Europe seeks to reduce its dependence on Russian fossil fuels, the demand for green hydrogen is expected to skyrocket. The study reveals that Europe will require 10 million tonnes per annum of green hydrogen, presenting a significant opportunity for Tasmania to meet this demand. The shipping distance between Bell Bay in Tasmania and Rotterdam is not a limiting factor, and the study confirms that Tasmanian hydrogen can easily compete on the future Rotterdam HyXchange training platform.
The Tasmanian Government recognizes the importance of prioritizing the local utilization of green hydrogen to benefit the state’s people and climate. While there are currently five export-sized hydrogen projects in the pipeline in the Bell Bay area, the government emphasizes the need for rapid scaling up of projects and infrastructure. In addition, the study outlines the government’s intention to increase offshore wind power production in the Bass Strait, further supporting Tasmania’s green energy ambitions.
One of the notable projects in Tasmania is Line Hydrogen’s green hydrogen project in Bell Bay. With a solar offtake agreement in place, Line Hydrogen aims to commence production later this year or in early 2024. The project, estimated at $100 million (USD 66 million), plans to produce over 1,200 kilograms of green hydrogen daily for various local industries, including transport and mining. The facility will be powered by the nearby Bell Bay Solar Farm, developed by Climate Capital.
Bell Bay is emerging as a significant hub for green hydrogen projects. Bell Bay Powerfuels, a partnership between Abel Energy and Iberdrola Australia, is progressing plans for a 240 MW green hydrogen and green methanol production facility. Countrywide Hydrogen, a subsidiary of ReNu Energy, has announced its intention to develop a 10 MW facility. Major players like Fortescue Future Industries, Woodside, and Origin are also exploring hydrogen production opportunities in Bell Bay.
Tasmania’s aspirations to become a green hydrogen exporter by 2030 are well-founded, supported by the joint feasibility study conducted with the Rotterdam Port Authority. With favorable conditions for production and export, Tasmania has the potential to play a vital role in Europe’s energy transition. The Line Hydrogen project in Bell Bay is a significant milestone, with others set to follow suit, solidifying the region’s position as a growing hub for green hydrogen production. As Tasmania pursues its green energy goals, the prospect of a cleaner and more sustainable future for both the state and the global community becomes increasingly attainable.
