$70M Hydrogen Hub Takes Major Step Forward
Herbert MP Phillip Thompson has welcomed the opening of applications for a $70M fund to build a green hydrogen industry in Townsville.
The Townsville Hydrogen Hub was a commitment of the former Coalition Government, following long-term advocacy in partnership with the industry and Townsville Enterprise.
Mr Thompson said he was pleased proponents can now get on with their applications.
“Energy companies have been keen to get off the starting blocks for more than a year since this funding was confirmed,” he said.
“Ever since we formed the North Queensland Hydrogen Consortium (NQH2) and worked with industry to get the NERA ‘cluster’ classification, we’ve been taking all the steps necessary to ensure Townsville is at the forefront of this emerging national industry.
“We need energy security and we need it to be affordable. That’s why we should be exploring green hydrogen.”
NQH2 has been championed by lead member, Townsville Enterprise. CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith said local interest in the industry had remained strong and it was great to see progress with the grant.
“I have just returned from Japan and Korea and the demand for our green energy – in particular hydrogen in future – will be huge,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.
“This grant will enable the first pilot plants to be developed and built here in Townsville. With the construction of Copperstring and building the first hydrogen pilot plants we will prove our capability to the world and that will attract investment.”
Further information is available at grants.gov.au.
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