The Victorian Government is leading the way in renewable hydrogen development, with Australia’s first purpose-built hydrogen research, testing and training facility now up and running.
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, officially opened the new Hycel Hydrogen Technology Hub at Deakin University in Warrnambool.
“The Hycel Hydrogen Technology Hub will be critical to accelerating the development of a Victorian renewable hydrogen sector as we seize the regional jobs and economic opportunities this emerging technology presents,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
The Hycel Technology Hub is a 4.5-ha precinct co-located with South West TAFE. It features a new product engineering development laboratory, three laboratory bays, associated offices and a dedicated community and multifunctional space.
The hub will increase Victoria’s testing and manufacturing capabilities in hydrogen technologies, focusing on developing fuel cells for transport, heavy vehicles, trains and boats.
The hub will also support up to 200 jobs in regional Victoria over the project’s lifetime, including around 50 construction jobs and 16 in the energy sector.
Victorian Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said, “This world-class facility in Warrnambool demonstrates yet again that regional Victoria stands to benefit most from our ambitious renewable energy agenda.”
The project was supported by a $9 million investment from the Victorian Government’s Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund and a $9 million investment from the Federal Government.
These facilities will not only drive hydrogen fuel research but also equip the future workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver the State Government’s world-leading renewable energy agenda.
The hub’s pioneering work will support Victoria’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045 and help decarbonise energy-intensive sectors like long-haul transport, shipping, aviation and the high-heat industry.
The Victorian Government is supporting the development of Victoria’s emerging renewable hydrogen sector and will publish the Renewable Gas Directions Paper later this year.
Image: Brett Price/stock.adobe.com
