South Australia Leads the Way with Revolutionary Hydrogen Power Plant in Whyalla
Key Ideas
- South Australia secures a groundbreaking agreement with ATCO Australia to supply GE Vernova's advanced gas turbine running on 100% renewable hydrogen for the Whyalla hydrogen power plant.
- The project solidifies South Australia's position as a global leader in renewable energy and furthers the state's Hydrogen Jobs Plan by introducing zero-emission power generation technology.
- The plant will utilize renewable hydrogen from wind and solar farms to power GE Vernova's LM6000VELOX turbines, delivering 200MW of reliable, clean energy to the state's electricity grid.
- Premier Malinauskas emphasizes South Australia's commitment to clean energy and innovation, positioning the state as a pioneer in sustainable, hydrogen-fueled power generation globally.
The South Australian Government has reached a significant agreement with ATCO Australia to deploy cutting-edge technology for the Whyalla hydrogen power plant. This project involves the use of GE Vernova's LM6000VELOX aeroderivative gas turbines designed to run on 100% renewable hydrogen, showcasing the state's dedication to renewable energy and its Hydrogen Jobs Plan. By leveraging renewable energy sources like wind and solar power, South Australia aims to produce and store renewable hydrogen to fuel these turbines, providing reliable and clean power to the electricity grid. The order placed by ATCO Australia with GE Vernova includes four LM6000VELOX units, with commissioning scheduled for early 2026. This initiative represents a unique milestone as it marks the first commercial-scale GE Vernova power plant powered by aeroderivative gas turbine combustion technology capable of using 100% hydrogen. The Whyalla hydrogen plant's anticipated 200MW capacity will serve as a crucial asset in ensuring energy stability for South Australia’s electricity grid. Premier Peter Malinauskas underlines the state's leadership in the transition to clean energy and praises the partnership with GE Vernova and ATCO Australia, highlighting the establishment of a blueprint for sustainable, hydrogen-based power generation that can be emulated globally.