Exciting developments are underway as Viva Energy spearheads a $43 million project to establish a cutting-edge hydrogen refuelling station, marking a significant stride towards a greener future. Set at the gateway to the Corio refinery, this pioneering station, dubbed the New Energies Service Station (NESS), is slated to be operational by year-end, heralding Australia’s first of its kind.
Harnessing the power of renewable energy from western Victoria and recycled water from Barwon Water, NESS will churn out green hydrogen, thanks to its state-of-the-art two-megawatt electrolyser. Partnering with Toll Group, CDC, and Cleanaway, Viva Energy aims to foster a coalition of heavy-vehicle fleet operators committed to embracing hydrogen-powered vehicles, a pivotal step in driving sustainable transportation forward.
Open to the public, NESS will not only accommodate hydrogen-fueled vehicles but also feature electric vehicle charging stations, aligning with the evolving landscape of transportation fuels. Dale Cooper, Viva’s spokesperson, underscores the critical role of traditional refining amidst this transformative shift, emphasising the company’s strategic advantage in both industrial capability and intellectual capital.
The project’s momentum receives a significant boost from $23 million in federal government funding via the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), reflecting a broader national commitment to renewable hydrogen initiatives. With ARENA’s support, Australia has emerged as a frontrunner in the global race toward renewable hydrogen, buoyed by its abundant renewable energy resources.
Darren Miller, CEO of ARENA, emphasises Australia’s pivotal position in shaping the future of the renewable hydrogen industry, highlighting the country’s capacity to meet escalating global demands. As nations ramp up their ambitions, Australia stands ready to leverage its renewable energy potential, bolstered by strategic investments like the $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart program.
Moreover, research forecasts a substantial economic windfall from Australia’s hydrogen industry, projecting a potential $50 billion boost to the gross domestic product by 2050, along with the creation of thousands of regional and construction jobs. This underscores not only the environmental benefits but also the significant economic opportunities presented by embracing renewable hydrogen technologies.
In essence, Viva Energy’s NESS project exemplifies a bold stride towards sustainability, underscoring Australia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy. As the nation navigates the transition to a lower-carbon future, collaborative efforts between government, industry, and research institutions pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
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