Gippsland, Australia, is set to become the country’s leader in the development of hydrogen based industries as the region rapidly transitions from brown coal power generation to renewables.
An agreement signed between Gippsland Circular Economy Precinct Pty Ltd, (GCEP) and H2X Global Ltd (H2X Global), has set in motion an ambitious plan to manufacture hydrogen fuel cells, electrolysers, hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicles and a range of hydrogen power units including generators and emergency power supplies.
GCEP is a consortium of Gippsland based businesses who have recognised the need to transition the local economy toward renewables.
According to Brett Singh, Executive Director of GCEP, Gippsland’s high level of engineering, power generation and manufacturing expertise was a major factor in the decision to establish the centre of excellence and renewables precinct in the area.
According to Scott McArdle, Chief Executive Officer, and King Arthur, Executive Director, the corporate players attracted to Gippsland in regard to renewable opportunities was strong. The community support has also been very strong and need for jobs and industry transition is extremely important. They commented that signing the agreement with H2X Global, an international leader in the development and manufacture of fuels cells and hydrogen powered vehicles and machinery, would help to fast track the plans for the Gippsland precinct and the overall economy of the region.
The H2X Global product range includes utilities, vans, trucks and buses. The company has developed its own highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell technology and hydrogen power trains to install into its vehicles and machinery.
H2X Global recently engaged in a strategic partnership with listed hydrogen producer Pure Hydrogen (PH2).
Brendan Norman, Chief Executive Officer and founder of H2X Global said the Gippsland venture was one of the most exciting opportunities to build a successful hydrogen economy that he had seen.
Mr Norman, who is preparing to attend COP26 with H2X Global as an Australian representative company, praised the GCEP group for their thorough planning and development of the circular economy concept.