Energys welcomes the Federal Government’s commitment in the 2024–25 budget, particularly the significant focus on renewable hydrogen, which aligns perfectly with their mission to pioneer hydrogen fuel cell technology. They are encouraged by the “Future Made in Australia” initiative, which promises to stimulate local manufacturing and enhance Australia’s role in the global clean energy sector.

“We are pleased that the government recognises the enormous economic potential of renewable hydrogen; the measures announced in the budget certainly demonstrate that the government understands hydrogen is here to stay.” Said Energys founder and VP, Noel Dunlop.

While the budget provides a robust foundation for the growth of the hydrogen industry, primarily targeting export markets, it lacks specific measures for boosting local demand for hydrogen products such as hydrogen vehicles, fuel cell power generators, and other hydrogen-based technologies like marine propulsion. Local adoption of these technologies contributes to energy independence and positions Australia to secure its industries against geostrategic oil supply issues and move decisively towards our net zero commitments.

The “Future Made in Australia” initiative is a step in the right direction and presents an extraordinary opportunity to rejuvenate our manufacturing sector. However, to fully realise this potential, more detailed strategies and incentives are needed to promote the local use of hydrogen. This would catalyse the domestic hydrogen economy and create the manufacturing capacity necessary to supply emerging global markets.

“It’s great that hydrogen production is being incentivised on such a large scale. We want to ensure that the Australian advanced manufacturing sector gets the full benefit of this.” Said Dunlop.

“Every hydrogen production project faces the same hurdle; who are the off-takers?” he said.

“Export customers for hydrogen are, at present, ill-defined and a long way off, as are the transportships. Right now, however, there are local adoption opportunities that are commercially viable. With some well-targeted government incentives for adoption, we can kickstart Australia’s broader hydrogen manufacturing sector now.”

To kickstart this sector, they urge the government to introduce specific incentives for the local adoption of hydrogen technologies. Such measures would ensure the development of a robust domestic market, drive industry growth, and support the expansion of manufacturing capabilities necessary for export. By doing so, Australia can establish a leading position in the global hydrogen landscape.

Energys is eager to engage with the federal government and other stakeholders to expand on these initiatives. They aim to enhance the support structures within the budget to ensure that they foster international competitiveness and bolster local market growth, bringing the ambitious vision of “Future Made in Australia” to fruition for the hydrogen sector.

Justin Lance Marcel Lavadia

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Justin Lavadia is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum with a diverse writing background spanning various niches and formats. With a wealth of experience, he brings clarity and concise communication to digital content. His expertise lies in crafting engaging content and delivering impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

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