Renewable hydrogen to provide feasible pathway for Australia’s energy future

The report, based on rigorous and independent economic and commercial assessments across the full renewable hydrogen value chain, shows how policy settings can foster the development of a substantial new renewable energy source, retaining the ability for Australians to access safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy in much the same way as they do today.

Craig de Laine, CEO of the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group, a founding member of the Centre, said the reports show the significant role renewable hydrogen delivered through existing gas distribution networks can play to help reduce carbon emissions: “We have always said there is no single solution to the enormous task of decarbonising our homes and businesses – and we need more options, not fewer, to give us the greatest chance of achieving Australia’s emissions reduction targets while also maintaining the security, reliability and diversity of energy supply the community expects. Renewable gases such as renewable hydrogen and biomethane have a critical role to play in ensuring a smooth transition, creating new jobs and industries and as a low carbon energy choice for Australians. Allowing customers to continue to choose how they decarbonise should remain a fundamental part of our energy system going forward.”

“Indeed, many of our largest employers require the ongoing use of gas to decarbonise energy use and stay in business. Renewable gases such as hydrogen will provide this energy. Our gas infrastructure provides the means to supply renewable gas safely, reliably and efficiently in the same way we do today. As a result of investment over the last two decades in our world-class infrastructure, our existing gas distribution networks are ready today to deliver renewable hydrogen, with much of our distribution network already ready for 100% renewable hydrogen. All of our networks are set to be 100% hydrogen-ready in the near future with minor incremental investment. This report shows that a 10% blend of renewable hydrogen in our distribution networks can be a no-regrets pathway for carbon emissions reduction. Further, Australia has the potential to unlock a cost-efficient pathway towards 100% renewable hydrogen, making the most of our existing built infrastructure to help deliver on the transition."

Read the article online at: https://www.globalhydrogenreview.com/hydrogen/06112023/renewable-hydrogen-to-provide-feasible-pathway-for-australias-energy-future/