Origin Energy has received planning approval from the New South Wales government to develop a $207 million green hydrogen manufacturing hub in the Hunter region. The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub, to be located near Newcastle on Kooragang Island, will have a 1 GW electrolyser capacity and produce 5,500 tonnes of hydrogen annually. The project, developed in partnership with Orica, aims to supply hydrogen primarily for decarbonizing Orica's nearby manufacturing plant, resulting in significant emissions savings. The NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces emphasized the importance of an efficient planning system to attract investments for decarbonization and job creation. Construction is set to commence in mid-2025, with hydrogen production utilizing recycled water and grid-connected electricity supported by renewable generation certificates. Origin Energy plans to source energy from renewable assets or long-term power purchase agreements to ensure the project's energy is certified as renewable, leading to a small net carbon footprint. The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub is part of the Port of Newcastle Clean Energy Precinct and has received funding from both the NSW and federal governments. The project aligns with Australia's push for renewable hydrogen and ammonia industries with export capabilities, aiming to contribute to the country's energy transition and sustainability goals.