Hydrogen project starts
Aregional exploration into the potential of hydrogen as a renewable-energy source is officially underway in Warrnambool.
Federal Education Minister and Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has turned the first sod on a hydrogen research facility at Deakin University in the move that might eventually involve much of western Victoria.
Wimmera development leaders are among groups closely following the hydrogen-power probe and how the Wimmera might be able to capitalise on any progress.
Energy generated from solar or wind, a growth industry in the Wimmera, is likely to play a key role in producing hydrogen, which produces no emissions when burnt.
Mr Tehan said the Hydrogen Training Testbed at the Hycel Technology Hub in Victoria would enable Deakin University to increase the industry application of hydrogen research.
“The government committed $2-million over two years to the Hycel Technology Hub to support research and education in regional Australia, and to develop our hydrogen research capabilities,” he said.
“The work will increase efficiency in hydrogen production, storage and use, which will positively impact Australia’s energy industry.
“The project is consistent with the National Hydrogen Strategy and is an outstanding example of the benefits of strong links between industry and universities.
“It involves research collaboration between government, higher education and industry partners, including the City of Warrnambool and Australian Pipelines and Gas Association and Energy Networks Association, and is part of our government’s plan to invest in ideas and innovation in areas of national interest to help power Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19.
“This investment in research will complement the additional $1-billion for university research and $157-million for research infrastructure announced in the 2020 budget.”
Campus transition
The facility will work alongside a Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre project investigating hydrogen compatibility in the reticulated gas network. One of the first steps involves transitioning Deakin’s Warrnambool campus to 100 percent hydrogen.
Research will support a wider transition of existing natural gas networks for homes and businesses to hydrogen.
Earlier this year, the Federal Government also committed $300-million to establish the Advancing Hydrogen Fund to support the growth of a ‘clean, innovative, competitive and safe’ Australian hydrogen industry.
Alternative-energy advocates in the region are also pushing for greater research into the potential of other power sources such as biofuel.