The government of Australia has announced rules for the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub programme, which will invest A$70 million in the establishment of a hydrogen hub in Townsville, North Queensland. The area is set to receive an investment of A$140 million, including matching funds, to produce renewable hydrogen for local use or export. The federal budget for 2022–2023 included a commitment from the government to finance the hub. It has now allocated more than A$525 million to hydrogen hubs, including the A$454 million Regional Hydrogen Hubs programme.
For the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub programme, a competitive application process will start in March 2022. Applications for funding ranging from A$30 million to A$70 million will be accepted from hydrogen producers, consumers, and potential exporters. Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit a complete proposal in the second stage of the evaluation process.
Earlier this month, Shell Energy acquired the development rights to a 500 MW battery energy storage system project in Australia. Under the terms of the agreement, Shell would be granted the right to build, own, and operate the Wallerawang 9 Battery project (FID). The former Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow, New South Wales (NSW), would be used for the project’s construction.
