The Pilbara region of Western Australia is poised to become a clean energy powerhouse with a $140 million investment from the federal and Western Australian governments to build a hydrogen hub.
Envisioned as a major center for green hydrogen production and export, the Pilbara Hydrogen Hub will potentially serve as an international gateway for Australian-made green steel and iron.
The project will include a hydrogen pipeline connecting Maitland and the Burrup Strategic Industrial Area, a Clean Energy Training and Research Institute, port upgrades, and a study to plan for future expansion.
Construction is set to begin this year on a road and intersection, with the hub expected to be operational by mid-2028. The planned pipeline has the potential to produce around 492,000 tonnes of hydrogen per year, enough to decarbonize existing ammonia production on the Burrup Peninsula.
The combined $140 million investment, with $70 million each from the Commonwealth and Western Australian governments, will support infrastructure for hydrogen exports and renewable energy production.
“This project will be WA-produced hydrogen on Asia’s doorstep, helping to strengthen and diversify our economy for the future,” said Western Australian Premier Roger Cook.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen stated that the hub would ensure the Pilbara’s future as a major energy producer and exporter. The Australian Government’s $70 million contribution comes from its Regional Hydrogen Hubs program, which is investing over half a billion dollars to build hubs in key locations across the country.