Christchurch Airport and Fabrum Leading the Way in Green Hydrogen Innovation
Key Ideas
  • Fabrum and Christchurch Airport have partnered to establish a hydrogen testing facility at CIAL’s Kowhai Park to accelerate the development of green hydrogen-powered technologies, particularly in aviation.
  • The partnership includes global industry leaders like Airbus, Fortescue Future Industries, Air New Zealand, and Hiringa Energy, aiming to pioneer zero-emission aviation in New Zealand.
  • The hydrogen test facility, supported by a grant from Callaghan Innovation, will provide a platform for companies to test and refine liquid hydrogen systems, fostering innovation and collaboration in the sector.
  • Christchurch Airport's commitment to reducing operational emissions by 92% and driving decarbonization through cutting-edge initiatives like the hydrogen consortium positions it as a leader in sustainable aviation practices.
Fabrum, a New Zealand company specializing in zero-emission transition technologies, has collaborated with Christchurch Airport to introduce a hydrogen testing facility at CIAL’s Kowhai Park. This facility aims to advance green hydrogen technologies, with a strong focus on aviation applications. The partnership involves an industry consortium that includes Airbus, Fortescue Future Industries, Air New Zealand, and Hiringa Energy, all dedicated to realizing zero-emission aviation in New Zealand. Fabrum's executive chair highlighted the significance of the test facility in promoting hydrogen solutions for global decarbonization, especially in the aviation sector. Christchurch Airport's CEO emphasized the role of the facility in fostering innovation and collaboration for decarbonization efforts, positioning the airport as a key player in accelerating hydrogen adoption in aviation and beyond. The state-of-the-art hydrogen test facility, located in Christchurch's Kowhai Park energy precinct, offers a platform for developing and testing liquid hydrogen systems. It provides a dedicated space for companies to refine their technologies, with plans to host the first customers in 2025. With support from a Callaghan Innovation grant, Fabrum's initiative aims to benefit New Zealand's innovation ecosystem while having global significance. The facility will not only cater to Fabrum's clients but also welcome collaborative ventures to test hydrogen technologies before real-world deployment. By bringing excellence in hydrogen testing to the innovation ecosystem, Fabrum seeks to de-risk technology and advance hydrogen projects domestically and internationally. This innovative step signifies a significant contribution towards sustainability and green aviation practices in New Zealand.
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