MID WEST Ports at Geraldton in Western Australia is set to become a key player in the export of green hydrogen and ammonia to Europe.
New research shows the port is well placed to export hydrogen from the Oakajee Strategic Industrial Area (SIA) according to a Trilateral Hydrogen Hub Feasibility (TrHyHub) Study.
The study is a joint initiative between the State Government, Mid West Ports Authority, the Netherlands’ Port of Rotterdam, and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems which investigated the potential to deliver a clean energy supply chain between the SIA and Germany.
A State Government media release said that according to the study, exporting green ammonia through Oakajee SIA could be feasible through a single point mooring solution, with the Mid West offering a unique combination of excellent renewable energy potential, high land availability, and political stability.
The study also identified the Mid West’s potential for large-scale renewable electricity generation, which could allow for millions of tonnes of hydrogen to be produced per annum.
“This supports the goal of Oakajee SIA functioning as a large-scale hydrogen production hub,” the release said.
“The State Government is committed to supporting Strategic Industrial Areas across WA, including through the $1 billion Strategic Industries Fund, which will fast-track clean energy and major industrial projects.
Mid West minister, Jackie Jarvis said the state government was committed to making more products in WA.
“This study demonstrates the critical role WA could play as a clean energy exporter if we can work with industry and build on our experience as a globally recognised energy exporter that can deliver major projects,” Ms Jarvis said.
“By activating industrial areas and streamlining approvals, we will ensure WA is well-placed to become a world leader in green hydrogen exports.”
Ports minister Stephen Dawson said Mid West Ports plays a vital part in sustaining the economy of the region, and this study highlights its importance to the State leveraging new export opportunities, like renewable energy.
“I commend Mid West Ports Authority for their role in this study and their work to support the activation of Oakajee SIA.
“This collaborative project has also bolstered our State’s relationships with key international partners such as Europe’s largest seaport – the Port of Rotterdam – and strengthened our understanding of what is required to make clean energy exports from the Oakajee SIA to Europe a reality.”
