Inauguration of Hycel Technology Hub: Pioneering Hydrogen Advances in Regional Victoria
Key Ideas
  • The Hycel Technology Hub, funded by the Victorian and Federal Governments, along with Deakin University, has opened at Deakin's Warrnambool campus to drive research and testing in hydrogen technologies.
  • The facility, valued at over $20 million, aims to boost Victoria's hydrogen capabilities, focusing on fuel cell development for transport and heavy vehicles, while creating up to 200 jobs in regional Victoria.
  • Deakin University, in collaboration with Engineers Australia, is launching a suite of hydrogen energy micro-credentials to address talent shortages in the engineering workforce critical to Australia's clean energy goals.
  • The micro-credentials, part of a Federal Government-funded project, will equip professionals with skills in handling hydrogen, fuel cell operation, electrolyzers, built environment applications, and social responsibility in engineering.
The newly inaugurated Hycel Technology Hub at Deakin University's Warrnambool campus is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing research, demonstration, testing, and training in hydrogen technologies. Supported by a $9 million investment from the Victorian Government and $9 million from the Federal Government, along with contributions from Deakin University, the hub is strategically located within a Victorian Renewable Energy Zone. The facility, co-located with South West TAFE, features state-of-the-art laboratories, offices, and a community space to enhance Victoria's testing and manufacturing capabilities in hydrogen technologies. With a strong focus on fuel cells for transport, heavy vehicles, trains, and boats, the hub facilitates industry collaboration to drive the clean energy transition. The project is expected to create around 200 jobs in regional Victoria, including roles in construction and the energy sector. The Hycel Technology Hub also houses specialized equipment such as the G400 fuel cell stack testing station, a unique asset in Australia. In addition to the infrastructure development, Deakin University, in partnership with Engineers Australia, is launching a series of hydrogen energy micro-credentials to address talent shortages in the engineering workforce. These micro-credentials cover various aspects of hydrogen technology, from handling and operation to social responsibility in engineering. The project, supported by the Federal Government's Local Jobs Program, aims to provide professionals with the necessary skills to contribute effectively to Australia's clean energy goals. The collaborative effort between Deakin University and Engineers Australia reflects a commitment to bridging knowledge gaps and upskilling engineers for the evolving hydrogen economy. The project, set for completion by June 2025, underscores the importance of industry-academic partnerships in driving innovation and workforce development in the renewable energy sector.
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