TasPorts has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the H2U Group that will see the pair investigate the feasibility of developing a large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia production and export facility within Tasmania’s Bell Bay port precinct.
The proposed facility would be initially capable of producing up to 500,000 tonnes of green ammonia per year with the potential to scale-up, supporting the emerging hydrogen industry and advancing Tasmania’s renewable energy ambitions.
Under the MoU, TasPorts and the H2U Group will assess the technical, economic, environmental and social feasibility of the project, including potential port infrastructure requirements, energy and water supply, export logistics and local workforce opportunities.
TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald says the collaboration builds on TasPorts’ vision to position Bell Bay as one of Australia’s most sustainable bulk ports.
“This collaboration represents another significant step forward in the transition to low-emission energy solutions and will help accelerate the state’s contribution to Australia’s future fuel security,” he says.
“Our investigations will focus on assessing the implementation of a large-scale production facility from green hydrogen and derivative commodities – including green ammonia and associated bunkering infrastructure – for export and domestic use.
“If successful, this project could deliver lasting benefits for Tasmania by attracting new industries to Tasmania and the George Town region, strengthening local supply chains and creating skilled job opportunities during construction and operation.”
H2U Group founder and CEO Dr Attilio Pigneri says Bell Bay is ideally positioned to support both Australia’s export ambitions and the global energy sector’s transition to cleaner fuels.
“Bell Bay is one of just a handful of locations in Australia that has a deepwater port, a diversified industrial complex, and access to renewable energy,” Pigneri says.
“Building on our experience with similar developments in Gladstone and the Eyre Peninsula we are pleased to work with TasPorts to support our vision for an integrated green energy export hub at Bell Bay.”
The Bell Bay industrial precinct has been identified by both the Tasmanian and Australian governments as a key location for renewable energy development, with several proponents currently advancing projects focused on hydrogen and green manufacturing.
Completion of the study is expected towards the end of the financial year, and if successful will inform the preferred project design and advanced development activities, including front-end engineering and design, and development approvals.