Clean hydrogen from biomass for Bundaberg

A multimillion-dollar renewable energy venture is to produce green hydrogen and ammonia for export and domestic use in Bundaberg, Queensland, adding to a growing network of regional production sites.

A joint venture between Clean Holdings Pty Ltd and Singapore based CAC-H2 Pte Ltd plans long term investment in excess of $400 million in Bundaberg for the project which will convert waste wood and sustainable forestry biomass to create green hydrogen.

CAC-H2 is already developing a similar plant in the Hunter Valley of NSW, but the Queensland project will include the development of a deep-water wharf for large scale export to Japan and South Korea.

The plant’s capacity is expected to produce up to 30,000 metric tonnes per annum of green ammonia.

Chief executive of Clean Holdings Ken Mathews said Bundaberg was set to become a major renewables hub and a key centre for the growth of the hydrogen economy.

“We have already started to develop the various sites for our Hydrogen production facilities.

“With the global sugar market contracting, there is a need to stimulate local business and to provide new employment and training opportunities to locals.”

CEO of CAC-H2 Glenn Davies said his company was bringing the first ‘negative carbon’ hydrogen production process to Australia.

“We have developed a unique circular model that will include working with the sugar cane industry and local farmers to utilise waste biomass from agricultural activities.

“This will have positive opportunities for economic development, emissions reductions and stronger collaboration in business.”

Davies said farmers could supply waste material and also have access to large quantities of biochar, biofuels and wood vinegar as by-products of the gasification process.

“The blending of biochar and wood vinegar makes it a promising tool for regenerative agriculture and pest control.”

The company will be located within the Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) of the Bundaberg State Development Area.

Mathews said construction of facility was expected to commence as soon as possible, with first hydrogen production as early as December 2022.

Picture: CAC-H2 Pte Ltd

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.