Hydrogen success good news for CarbonNet

Hydrogen production has successfully commenced at a dedicated facility in the Latrobe Valley.

Hydrogen production has successfully commenced at a dedicated facility in the Latrobe Valley.

The world's largest hydrogen export demonstration project, the Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain (HESC) pilot, is now converting brown coal into hydrogen gas.

Minister for Economic Development media release from 12 March 2021: Hydrogen Production Success For World First Project.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a necessary condition for the HESC project to progress to full commercial scale.

The CarbonNet project is developing in parallel with HESC. If both projects are commercialised, CO₂ captured during hydrogen production would be transported and stored by CarbonNet using CCS technology. Rather than entering the atmosphere, CO2 emissions would be safely stored in rocks 1.5 kilometres beneath Bass Strait, similar to the way oil and gas has been trapped naturally for millions of years.

Head of Resources within the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, John Krbaleski, welcomed today’s announcement.

“The news from the Latrobe Valley about hydrogen being produced is very positive and represents a step forward for both the HESC and CarbonNet projects.”

“CarbonNet has the potential to support the clean production of hydrogen, fertiliser and bioenergy, further boosting jobs and work to reduce emissions.”

“Storing Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial processes underground, as occurs at sites around the world, can enable the cost-effective decarbonisation of current and future industries.”

“Well-done to everyone involved in the HESC project, I look forward to hearing news of the first exports to Japan later this year.”

Earlier this month the Victorian Connection featured a story on the CarbonNet project and similar project overseas: Climate change action in Europe points to opportunities for Victoria

Contact: Mark Farrugia

Phone: (03) 8392 6913