NSW, Victoria and Queensland have announced a landmark tri-state collaboration on a renewable hydrogen refuelling network for heavy transport and logistics along Australia’s eastern seaboard.
The refuelling will start with $20 million support from the NSW and Victorian governments to build at least four renewable hydrogen refuelling stations between Sydney and Melbourne.
The Australian Hydrogen Council CEO, Dr Fiona Simon, welcomed this exciting announcement from the three state governments for their investment in hydrogen transport.
“The collaboration between these three states will facilitate the uptake and use of hydrogen as a fuel for heavy transport along the Eastern highways,” Simon said.
“This delivers the next phase of the three governments’ hydrogen strategies and is a terrific example of the cross-jurisdictional efforts we need to see to grow the industry for Australia. It is also consistent with the Australian Hydrogen Council’s recommendations to governments in its white paper, where we asked for refuelling stations on the Hume and government support to get hydrogen trucks on the road.”
According to Simon, transport operators and vehicle manufacturers can see the potential in using hydrogen technology, however there has been a number of barriers, such as a lack of refuelling infrastructure.
“Today’s announcement will help them move one step closer to transitioning to lower emissions fleets,” she said. “We know this announcement is the result of months of hard work and coordination, as well as terrific engagement with industry to consider options and map next steps.
“The Australian Hydrogen Council looks forward to working with the states and the transport industry to see this important initiative take shape.”