Fortescue Ltd Reports Steady Iron Ore Production Amid Push for Green Hydrogen
Key Ideas
- Fortescue Ltd's underlying net profit rose by three per cent to $US5.68 billion for the year to June 30, driven by higher iron ore prices.
- The company remains committed to its $US6.2 billion decarbonisation plan, including the deployment of renewable energy generation, electric haul trucks, and green locomotives.
- Fortescue plans to become a major consumer of green hydrogen while maintaining financial discipline and economic viability in its investments.
- Executive chairman Andrew Forrest reiterated the company's dedication to reaching its real zero target by 2030 and emphasized the importance of transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Fortescue Ltd, an Australian mining giant, has reported stable iron ore production amidst a strategic shift towards green hydrogen. The company's underlying net profit increased by three per cent to $US5.68 billion for the year ending June 30, attributed to higher iron ore prices offsetting inflationary pressures. Despite the challenges, Fortescue has remained steadfast in its commitment to its $US6.2 billion decarbonisation plan, which includes scaling up renewable energy generation, deploying electric haul trucks and green locomotives. The company aims to position itself as one of the leading consumers of green hydrogen globally.
While embracing the energy transition, Fortescue's energy CEO, Mark Hutchison, highlighted the importance of financial prudence and ensuring the economic viability of investments. Executive chairman Andrew Forrest echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the company's dedication to achieving its real zero emissions target by 2030. Forrest stressed the collective responsibility of companies to transition towards a future independent of fossil fuels.
Fortescue's recent performance showcased resilience, with emissions in FY24 being about 10 per cent lower than anticipated. The company also has a strategic focus on critical minerals like copper, lithium, and rare earths. Additionally, Fortescue declared a fully franked final dividend of 89 Aussie cents, amounting to a total dividend of $A1.97, up from $A1.75 in the previous year. The company's commitment to sustainable practices and its focus on renewable energy underscore its position as a key player in the evolving global energy landscape.