Hydrogen sector calls for policy framework

Australia’s hydrogen industry is calling on the incoming federal Labor government for policy certainty to drive decarbonisation and allow the sector to thrive.

Australian Hydrogen Council chief executive Fiona Simon will tell the industry’s conference in Adelaide on Tuesday the government must urgently introduce measures to create a market for hydrogen.

“The eyes of the new energy world are fixed on Australia. Our trade partners are closely watching how we develop this market,” Dr Simon said.

“But the hydrogen economy can’t wait for market forces alone to drive decarbonisation. We need policy certainty and coordination to get this market to scale.

“This could include market mechanisms to value carbon emissions, clean energy and fuel standards, taxation support for research and development, new investment and targeted transition deadlines.”

Dr Simon said pressure is mounting as the effects of climate change become increasingly evident and energy security remains a priority issue across the world.

“The time for action is now,” she said.

The two-day Australian Hydrogen Conference brings together energy experts from across the sector to explore the latest projects, challenges, opportunities and lessons and to help shape the industry’s future.

Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis said South Australia’s unique combination of wind and solar resources offer an unprecedented opportunity for the state to lead global change in the energy sector.

“Our goal is to maintain our continued world leadership in energy transformation while generating thousands of new jobs for South Australians and unlocking a $20 billion pipeline of renewable energy projects,” he said.