The Queensland Government has released the new $19 million Queensland Hydrogen Industry Strategy 2019–2024 to assist in developing a world-class sustainable hydrogen industry.
Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said hydrogen has the potential to be Queensland’s next LNG, and a new source of highly-skilled jobs, especially in regional Queensland.
“In the sixties it was the Space Race,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“This century is all about energy.
“Queensland is at the forefront of hydrogen development. We aim to keep it that way.”
Queensland’s new hydrogen strategy focuses on five areas:
- Supporting innovation
- Facilitating private investment
- Effective policy frameworks
- Building community awareness
- Facilitating skills development
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick, said the state’s investment — $15 million of which will support an industry development fund — will ensure the growth of a hydrogen industry in Queensland.
“Our five-year plan will help drive the development of an economically sustainable and competitive hydrogen industry in Queensland, creating more highly-skilled jobs and export opportunities,” Mr Dick said.
“The energy production from renewable hydrogen is something that has long been possible, however, conditions are now more favourable for this industry to develop locally.
“Global demand for hydrogen is increasing, with the market expected to reach US$155 billion by 2022, and much of that will be driven by Asia-Pacific markets.
“I’m confident that in partnership with industry, universities and research institutes, we can develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry here in Queensland.”
Member for Gladstone, Glenn Butcher, said Queensland’s vision was to be at the forefront of renewable hydrogen production by 2030, and the strategy will assist in achieving this goal.
“This global transition to a low-carbon future presents tremendous opportunities for Queensland,” Mr Butcher said.
“Our state has all the prerequisites needed to support a renewable hydrogen industry, including solar, wind and biomass, existing gas pipeline infrastructure, and first-class export facilities, and we’re eager to take advantage of our position,” Mr Butcher said.
