WA govt applies for Pilbara and Mid-West hydrogen hub funding

The Western Australian government has announced two applications under the federal Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hubs program, pledging to invest up to $117.5 million to attract matched Commonwealth money.

The applications were made recently — with Hub Implementation Round 1 Grants having closed on November 22 — and are for proposed hubs in the Pilbara and the Mid-West regions. These would create a claimed 2,000 skilled and semi-skilled jobs.

“The Pilbara Hydrogen Hub plan involves development of a hydrogen or ammonia pipeline connecting the Maitland and Burrup strategic industrial areas, creation of a Clean Energy Training and Research Institute based out of both Karratha and Port Hedland, and port upgrades to facilitate export opportunities,” said a statement from premier Mark McGowan.

“The Mid West Clean Hydrogen Hub proposal includes construction of renewable energy and road infrastructure at the Oakajee Strategic Industrial Area, as well as connecting the area to power and water, and developing hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.”

The WA government said its state enjoyed natural advantages for a hydrogen industry, such as abundant solar and wind energy generating potential, land, and export infrastructure.

The program is open to an entity incorporated in Australia or state/territory governments, and offers between $30 million and $70 million assistance to projects in seven nominated regions around the nation.

Picture: Province Resources

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