Renewable hydrogen project developer Countrywide Hydrogen is driving the transition of the Northern Tasmanian energy sector, with a plan to deliver green hydrogen to power local industry and decarbonise gas supplies.
Speaking in Launceston at a Tasmanian Hydrogen Renewable Industry Network Forum, Countrywide managing director Geoffrey Drucker outlined the company’s vision for a renewable energy economy in the region.
Countrywide is advancing its plans to produce and deliver renewable hydrogen into the Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone (BBAMZ) and into the state’s natural gas network to decarbonise supply.
With first production of hydrogen on track for late 2024, Countrywide is working on securing an electrolyser of up to 10MW to enable to it to meet growing demand from BBAMZ gas customers and the broader George Town precinct, as well as exploring opportunities for behind-the-meter solar generation and captured water for hydrogen production.
The company is also in discussions with a range of local businesses and organisations about decarbonising their operations and transitioning car and truck fleets to zero emissions options.
Drucker said Tasmania is poised to show the world that renewable hydrogen would not just reduce emissions, but could also be the key to a reliable, secure, and home-produced energy supply.
“Given its abundant natural resources and the commitment of local businesses and policymakers to renewables, Tasmania could lead the way for the world in achieving energy self-sufficiency and radically reducing emissions from industry and transport,” he said.
“Here in the north, business, government and renewables project developers are working together to develop a circular energy economy founded on hydrogen. This will power local industry and ultimately help to decarbonise the state’s gas network.
“Domestic supply projects add value to the state’s economy through job creation for hydrogen production and refuelling, upskilling current diesel workers, opening doors to new industries and investment in the state, and further enhancing the brand of Tasmania.”
George Town Council general manager Shane Power says it is particularly excited about the opportunities that green hydrogen will provide for domestic application be it LPG displacement, transport, power and the local economic benefits these industries will create for the municipality, region and state.
Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone chief executive Susie Bower says Tasmania has been a renewable powerhouse for many years and capitalising on the opportunities hydrogen will bring will only strengthen that reputation.
