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By HARRY CLARKE
10 August 2021
A SO called “mapping” project is underway to gauge the potential for Queensland’s Western Downs region to become a future hub for hydrogen production.
Energy minister Mick de Brenni today announced a partnership between publicly-owned power generator CS Energy and Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) to increase local participation in the hydrogen industry.
The six month project will map and uncover the capability and potential of local businesses to support a hydrogen supply chain, creating a new online supplier portal.
“This online tool will provide valuable information on local capability and identify opportunities for local businesses in the supply chain allowing them to upskill, as well as attract new organisations to the region,” Mr de Brenni said.
The six-month project will complement CS Energy’s joint feasibility study with IHI Corporation Japan on the establishment of a renewable hydrogen demonstration plant next to Kogan Creek Power Station near Chinchilla.
TSBE CEO Ali Davenport (pictured) said the online portal project would set a high benchmark for other projects and industries.
“This mapping project will collect data to help us get a big picture view of local capability and provide information that will open the door for further discussions around training and upskilling for the future,” Ms Davenport said.
“It will help ensure that local companies are able to understand the opportunities around hydrogen and develop their capability to service this growing market.”
CS Energy CEO Andrew Bills said CS Energy is providing funding and in-kind support towards the TSBE project, which is expected to be completed in six months.
“Upon completion, the comprehensive mapping process will provide CS Energy with extensive information on regional businesses and their capability,” Mr Bills said.
“As we prepare to progress our hydrogen demonstration project proposal to the next stage, this local business ‘intel’ will be invaluable.”
