Gladstone gem to expand world’s hydrogen production

Click here for photo of QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane.

Click here for the media statement from the Queensland Government.

The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has welcomed the addition of a new asset for Queensland’s diverse resources and energy sector, with the announcement of plans for one of the world’s largest hydrogen-equipment manufacturing facilities in Gladstone, in partnership between the Queensland Government and Fortescue Future Industries (FFI).

QRC’s Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the state’s resources sector was already a major breadwinner for Queensland, and welcomed its additional depth with the investment in manufacturing hydrogen electrolysers, which are vital to the production of renewable hydrogen.

“Queenslanders are reaping the benefits of the resources industry and Government working together, which is demonstrated through this announcement,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“When the QRC released its Resource Recovery Agenda in August 2020, we called out the potential for new low emission exports in Queensland from hydrogen, green aluminum and steel. I am delighted to see that potential start to come to fruition.

“Adding value in Queensland is the best way to create more jobs in our regions.

“This is great news for Queensland. In its initial stage, this $114 million investment from FFI is expected to create 120 construction jobs and 53 operational jobs,” Mr Macfarlane said.

Job numbers are expected to exceed 300 over the life of the project.

“The announcement of the Green Energy Manufacturing (GEM) Centre is another gem in the Gladstone’s crown as the engine room of Queensland’s industrial economy” said Mr Macfarlane.

“Queensland has long been recognised as an essential source of energy for key trading partners like Japan, Korea, China, India and Taiwan through our exports of coal and gas. Queensland now has an opportunity to build on our reputation for reliability in working towards hydrogen exports.”

“Gladstone has the most readily expanded port in the Southern Hemisphere, so it is the natural home for these exciting new developments.”

Mr Macfarlane emphasised that the renewable energy and hydrogen sectors are a major part of the resource industry’s low-emission future.

“The resources industry is committed to working with the Government on a transition to a low emission future.”

/Public Release. View in full here.