Australia-wide network of hydrogen technology clusters unveiled

PERTH -- A network of regional hydrogen technology clusters has been unveiled across Australia as part of a drive to establish a nationwide hydrogen cluster. AUD1.75 million is to be invested in 13 clusters across all states and territories to foster a multi-billion dollar, globally-competitive hydrogen industry.

Spearheaded by National Energy Resources Australia (NERA), the national cluster, to operate as a virtual network, will establish a global identity and a recognised brand for Australian hydrogen technology and expertise. It will also aid the development of the hydrogen supply chain, reduce overlaps and identify gaps in the development, deployment, and commercialisation of new hydrogen focussed technologies. 

Establishment of the regional hydrogen technology clusters follows conclusion of a seed-funding selection programme started by NERA in September. NERA has also been able to leverage a range of funding commitments from state and territory governments around Australia, as well as industry financial support. 

NERA CEO, Miranda Taylor, said today's announcement was a crucial step in building the skills, capacities and commercialisation opportunities necessary to unlock Australia's enormous potential to create a globally-competitive hydrogen industry that, according to a 2019 Deloitte report, could increase Australia's GDP by up to $26 billion. 

"Today marks a great step forward in Australia's capability in developing hydrogen technologies," she said.

"These regional clusters, all of which have the support of their state and territory governments, have been established around key, existing hydrogen projects and technology supply chains in strategic locations that have a demonstrated capacity to support them."

"This will ensure long-term local cohesion and sustainable capability across the emerging hydrogen value chain."  

Development of a national hydrogen cluster was identified by the 2019 National Hydrogen Strategy as an important component to scale up Australia's domestic industry to become a global hydrogen competitor. 

www.nera.org.au (ATI).