Driving the Renewable Hydrogen Industry Forward in Australia with Innovative Byproducts
Key Ideas
  • Renewable hydrogen, produced from electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, is seen as a crucial clean energy source to decarbonise industries like aviation and wastewater treatment.
  • The high cost of producing renewable hydrogen, currently estimated at $6-$9 per kg, is a barrier to wider adoption. ARENA-funded projects aim to lower costs and drive market competitiveness.
  • Pure oxygen, a byproduct of renewable hydrogen production, is being explored as a valuable resource to enhance project economics, improve efficiency in wastewater treatment, and meet emissions reduction targets.
  • Collaborative projects like the Green Oxygen for Wastewater Treatment initiative in Geelong demonstrate the potential for a circular economy where byproducts from renewable hydrogen production are utilized to lower emissions and improve sustainability.
The renewable hydrogen industry is making strides in Australia with the help of innovative projects funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). Renewable hydrogen, produced through the electrolysis of water using electricity from solar and wind sources, is positioned as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors like aviation and wastewater treatment. The high cost of producing renewable hydrogen has been a challenge, but efforts are underway to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness in the market. Pure oxygen, a byproduct of renewable hydrogen production, is gaining attention for its potential to drive commercial viability in the industry. ARENA is supporting projects that explore the use of pure oxygen to improve project economics, efficiency in wastewater treatment, and overall emissions reduction. By utilizing oxygen in processes like wastewater treatment, emissions can be lowered significantly, contributing to a sustainable future. An exemplary project in Geelong involves Barwon Water utilizing pure oxygen from Viva Energy's renewable hydrogen production plant for wastewater treatment. The collaboration not only aims to make renewable hydrogen more commercially viable but also presents an opportunity for emissions reduction in a significant source like wastewater treatment. The efficient use of oxygen in these processes not only improves their effectiveness but also contributes to a circular economy model. The impact of these initiatives extends to various sectors, including aviation and wastewater treatment, where renewable hydrogen and byproducts like pure oxygen are driving significant improvements in sustainability and emissions reduction. By leveraging these innovative approaches, Australia is moving closer to achieving its goals of decarbonization and transitioning to a more sustainable energy landscape.
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