New alliance will develop hydrogen refueling infrastructure in Australia
Fortescue Metals Group and ATCO Australia have signed an agreement to explore the deployment of hydrogen vehicle fueling infrastructure in Western Australia. Under the agreement, the two parties will collaborate to build and operate a combined hydrogen production and refueling facility at ATCO’s existing facility in Jandakot in the Perth metropolitan area, with the possibility of wider deployment across the State. The companies have sought funding under the State Government’s Renewable Hydrogen Fund to support the development of this infrastructure, and are awaiting the outcome of this submission.
The initial refueling facility will provide Fortescue, ATCO and approved third parties with the opportunity to refuel vehicles capable of utilizing hydrogen as the primary fuel source, including a fleet of Toyota Mirai fuel cell vehicles which have been made available by Toyota Motor Corporation Australia. The project will serve as a showcase for hydrogen mobility in Western Australia and support the transition to the next generation of zero-emission transport.
“As the world moves towards a lower carbon future, hydrogen has the potential to play a key role in the future energy mix and we want to ensure we remain at the forefront of Australia’s renewable hydrogen industry,” said Fortescue CEO Elizabeth Gaines. “Identifying and establishing partnerships is critical to unlocking the future potential of hydrogen and we look forward to working with ATCO to capitalize on the economic opportunities associated with hydrogen and support the development of a competitive hydrogen industry.”
“ATCO’s Clean Energy Innovation Hub has been generating and testing the use of renewable hydrogen for more than six months in gas blending and power applications. The Hub provides a fantastic base from which to partner with Fortescue to contribute to Western Australia’s burgeoning renewable hydrogen industry,” said ATCO Managing Director in Australia Pat Creaghan. “We look forward to working with Fortescue capitalize on Western Australia’s natural advantages for the benefit of the environment, the economy and the community.”
Toyota Australia Manager of Future Technologies and Mobility Matt MacLeod also commented, “The agreement between ATCO and Fortescue demonstrates a clear commitment to hydrogen energy in Australia and this emerging economic sector. We congratulate both companies on this innovative approach to their joint vision for the future of zero emissions transportation.”