The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is providing $22.8 million to help Viva Energy build a hydrogen cell refuelling station in Geelong.
The $43.3 million project is expected to help reduce emissions from the heavy vehicle sector and will be Australia’s first public new energies service station.
Angus Taylor, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, said construction of the hydrogen fuel station next door to Viva’s refinery is part of the government’s commitment to reduce emissions in the transport sector through low emissions technology.
“This project is a great example of our Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy in action, adding to the $2.1 billion we have committed to accelerating the uptake of low emissions vehicles in Australia.”
Scott Wyatt, CEO and MD at Viva Energy, said Viva Energy is excited to partner with long-term existing customers to demonstrate the important role that hydrogen will play in the future of transportation in Australia.
“This project puts hydrogen-powered vehicles on the road to prove their value in day-to-day commercial operations while reducing the carbon footprint of the heavy vehicle transport we rely on every day.”
Tim Wilson, Assistant Minister to the Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, said this project is a key opportunity to drive early uptake of commercially viable hydrogen electric vehicles in the transport industry.
“Freight transport is a stubborn source of Australia’s emissions that will only be cut through technology solutions which ensure that fresh food, packages, and products can be delivered. Hydrogen has the potential to be that technology solution.”
The new station will be built opposite Viva Energy’s petroleum refinery and will include 15 hydrogen electric heavy vehicles, including prime movers, buses, and wastewater and waste collection vehicles which will be purchased by the project’s foundation partners.
Sarah Henderson, Victorian Senator, welcomed the project, stating it will generate new jobs and that an engineering and trade skills program will be developed to support new industry.
“These programs will ensure Geelong residents can take part in the construction of the hydrogen fuel station.
“Geelong is an ideal location due to its proximity to both major arterial roads, for visibility, and nearby Barwon Water recycling plant, for production of hydrogen.”