Hydrogen Collaboration Strengthens Between Port of Newcastle and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
In a pivotal move towards advancing its Clean Energy Precinct (CEP), the Port of Newcastle has solidified its partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd (MHI) through a formal Advisory Agreement.
The agreement marks a significant milestone for the Port of Newcastle, allowing it to harness MHI’s extensive expertise in hydrogen and ammonia production, storage, and distribution. This collaboration will play a crucial role in informing the ongoing Front End Engineering Design (FEED) studies for the CEP.
Craig Carmody, CEO of Port of Newcastle, emphasised the strategic importance of this partnership, stating, “It’s an honour for us to collaborate with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, leveraging their technical know-how to advance our common user facility in the Clean Energy Precinct.”
Takehiko Kikuchi, Senior Fellow and Chief Regional Officer for Asia Pacific & India at MHI, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting MHI’s commitment to supporting Newcastle’s leadership in clean energy production. “MHI’s Takasago Hydrogen Park, the world’s first facility validating the full hydrogen value chain, provides invaluable insights for our joint efforts in Newcastle,” Kikuchi added.
The Clean Energy Precinct at Port of Newcastle is positioned as Australia’s most advanced port in clean energy initiatives, currently undergoing FEED and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) studies. These studies, managed by Lumea (electrical), CoNEXA (water), and GHD (general infrastructure), encompass critical aspects like electrical and berth infrastructure, water services, storage facilities, and pipeline networks.
Supported by a $100 million grant from the Commonwealth Government for hydrogen readiness, administered by the NSW Government, the CEP is poised to become a significant economic driver. Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, emphasized the precinct’s role in catalyzing economic growth and transitioning towards net-zero emissions.
Upon completion, the dedicated 220-hectare Clean Energy Precinct is projected to contribute $4.2 billion to the economy and generate thousands of jobs in the Hunter Region by 2040. This ambitious initiative underscores Newcastle’s pivotal role in Australia’s clean energy future, bolstered by MHI’s cutting-edge technologies and global expertise.