The Port of Newcastle has signed key agreements for the design and environmental impact studies for its proposed Clean Energy Precinct.
Backed by $100 million funding from the Federal Government, the precinct will renew a disused 220ha industrial site to facilitate clean energy production, storage, transmission, domestic distribution and international export.
The Federal Government is supporting these latest studies along with the procurement and delivery of enabling works for the precinct. The project is being delivered in partnership with the New South Wales Government through a Federation Funding Agreement Schedule.
The commencement of front-end engineering design (FEED) and environmental impact statement (EIS) studies follow previous work by the Port of Newcastle including public and industry engagement and feasibility studies. Formal community consultation and further industry engagement will now be undertaken by the Port.
Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmod, said that the Clean Energy Precinct is expected to support around 5800 jobs throughout construction and provide new business growth and expanded career pathways for the region, adding an estimated $4.2 billion to the Hunter regional economy.
“The FEED and EIS studies will cover electrical infrastructure, water services, general infrastructure, storage, berth infrastructure and pipelines to berth. The studies will be completed by successful tenderers Lumea (electrical), coNEXA (water) and GHD (general infrastructure, storage, berth and pipelines), informing future site enablement, site layout and land platform design, which will be used to prepare concept planning approvals.
“Pending planning and legislative requirements and timeframes, our production partners, KEPCO, are expected to begin construction of facilities in 2027, with the precinct to be operational from 2030.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the Clean Energy Precinct demonstrates how legacy infrastructure can be repurposed towards making Australia a renewable energy superpower.
“Through our investment, we are supporting Australia’s transition to net zero while creating jobs and economic opportunities in the Hunter region,” Ms King said.
“The project will help position Australia as a global leader in technologies and products that reduce carbon emissions including hydrogen and green ammonia.”
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said, “The Hunter has been an industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a clean energy precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia’s renewable resources to the world.
“The Federal Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with more affordable and reliable renewable energy.”
Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, said that the Clean Energy Precinct is a major economic boost for the region.
“Newcastle and the Hunter have powered Australia for generations. This project makes sure we will continue to do so for generations to come as we lead the transition to net zero,” Ms Claydon said.
“Establishing the Port as a hydrogen exporter will ensure good local jobs are protected and created into the future.”
New South Wales Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, said, “The Hunter has powered our state for decades and we’re ensuring it continues to do so for many years to come.
“Our energy market is transforming and we’re playing a central role; this project will support almost 6000 local jobs and add billions to the regional economy.
“Today’s announcement will help ensure a bright future for the Hunter.”
For more information, visit www.portofnewcastle.com.au/landside/major-projects/clean-energy-precinct.
Featured image: Taras Vyshnya/shutterstock.com
