Countrywide Hydrogen, a division of ReNu Energy, is set to emerge as Tasmania’s primary green hydrogen producer following the finalisation of an $8 million funding arrangement with the Tasmanian Government.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, also serving as the Minister for Trade and Major Investment, hailed the agreement as a significant stride towards realising Tasmania’s vision of spearheading green hydrogen production.
“This is a crucial step towards realising our vision of Tasmania becoming a leader in green hydrogen production,” stated Premier Rockliff.
“Under this agreement, Countrywide will produce hydrogen at multiple locations around the state, and supply hydrogen for a diverse group of users.
Initially targeting the heavy transport sector and potential industrial applications, the project aims to supply all produced hydrogen within the local Tasmanian market.
“It will be part of the next great evolution of our economy, capitalising on our great tradition of zero-emissions energy production to create the renewables jobs of the future.” Premier Rockliff underscored.
Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan underscored the agreement’s alignment with the Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Action Plan, facilitating the establishment of this burgeoning industry.
“All up this agreement will initially see more than $60 million invested in our state over the next three years as part of the Countrywide Project, money that will flow into regional and local economies and communities,” Minister Duigan elaborated.
The initial phase of the project will witness the construction of a hydrogen production and heavy vehicle refuelling facility at Brighton’s industrial hub, capable of yielding up to 800 tonnes annually of green hydrogen.
Minister Duigan outlined the expansion plans, detailing Countrywide’s ambition to extend production and refuelling facilities into the state’s northern and north-western regions, thereby ensuring comprehensive coverage of major road freight routes with a reliable hydrogen supply.
Crucially, the scheme aims to stimulate both supply and demand for renewable hydrogen, with Countrywide receiving funding based on the volume of green hydrogen sold to end-users.
“By supporting initiatives like this, we ensure a stable sale price for green hydrogen, bringing more stability for end-users and advancing our renewable energy objectives,” Minister Duigan affirmed.