The Chilean-founded e-fuels developer has shifted plans for HIF Tasmania following engineering and site reviews.
The former Pulp Mill site reportedly offers construction cost savings, port access for trade, and local resources such as recycled wastewater.
“The move will bring new life to one of the region’s most significant industrial sites, returning long-term employment to the community while supporting Tasmania’s ambition to be a leader in renewable energy,” the company explained.
Announced in 2022, the project is expected to produce over 200,000 tonnes of e-methanol per year once operational, supported by 280MW of electrolyser capacity.
HIF plans to submit its Notice of Intent to the Tasmanian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) soon, followed by a Development Application in 2026.
If approvals and construction proceed as anticipated, operations could begin by 2030.
“The Pulp site is hugely significant to Burnie and has sat idle and rusting for far too long,” said Ian Jones, President of the regional advocacy group, Business North West.
“I have followed the progress of this project very closely over the last three years and believe this is a golden opportunity for the town to be at the forefront of a new, emerging industry.”
Hydrogen-based e-methanol is a synthetic, carbon-neutral fuel made by combining green hydrogen with captured CO2. HIF Tasmania is expected to recycle around 300,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.
The low-carbon fuel can be used in shipping, be upgraded for aviation and road transport, replace fossil fuel-based methanol in industrial applications, or generate power.
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