Show Notes & Timestamps
0:00 - Welcome to Exploring Clean Energy
Andy introduces the show and today’s focus: clean energy solutions accelerating a sustainable future.

0:16 - Introducing Today’s Guest: Neil Gardner (Jet Zero Australia)
Neil’s background and role leading Jet Zero’s growth and SAF project development.

0:32 - What is SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel)?
Neil explains SAF as a non-fossil jet fuel and the lifecycle emissions reduction potential (around 60% to 85%+).

1:42 - “Drop-in fuel”: why SAF matters right now
How SAF works with existing aircraft and fuel infrastructure - no new planes required.

3:11 - SAF vs batteries vs hydrogen for aviation
Why batteries are currently too heavy for long-haul; hydrogen storage and infrastructure constraints; why SAF is viewed as the near/medium-term solution.

6:10 - SAF production pathways and “technology agnostic” delivery
Neil explains multiple ASTM-approved pathways and why Jet Zero focuses on high “TRL” (readiness) technologies.

7:40 - Alcohol-to-Jet and HEFA pathways explained
HEFA: currently the main global SAF pathway (using used cooking oil/tallow/oilseeds)
Alcohol-to-Jet: emerging as a key scalable pathway (ethanol → SAF)

9:15 - LanzaJet and the Ulysses project
LanzaJet’s commercialisation of Alcohol-to-Jet and Jet Zero’s relationship + licensing approach.

10:40 - Feedstocks: ethanol, sugarcane, corn waste, and future options
How different feedstocks support different SAF pathways—and why diversity matters.

12:20 - “There isn’t enough feedstock”: addressing the common critique
Neil’s take on market saturation risks for used cooking oil/tallow and the need for new feedstocks.

14:40 - Certification, transparency, and avoiding unintended consequences
Why traceability, certification, and supply chain governance are essential for integrity and emissions claims.

16:30 - Book-and-claim + blockchain traceability (in practice)
How corporates can track SAF impact across the supply chain and confidently report emissions reductions.

18:50 - Global mandates driving demand (EU, UK, Japan)
How blend mandates create demand certainty and unlock investment for capital-intensive SAF projects.

21:10 - Australia’s policy gap and the opportunity ahead
Why Australia is behind on mandates, what consultation is underway, and the “second-mover advantage”.

23:10 - Corporate-led momentum: Qantas, the SAF Coalition, and the $200m fund
How corporate Scope 3 commitments are pulling SAF into the market before regulation arrives.

25:30 - Why this industry scales fast: growth outlook and demand by 2050
Neil shares the growth trajectory and why this could be one of the fastest fuel transitions globally.

27:20 - What is Jet Zero and why it was created
Jet Zero’s purpose, investor support (including Airbus, Qantas, Idemitsu), and focus on bankable, near-term delivery.

28:40 - Funding correction (Queensland Government grant)
Neil corrects the Queensland Government grant figure mentioned in the episode.

29:35 - Project 1: Ulysses (Townsville) - Alcohol-to-Jet
~200M litres of ethanol input
~100M litres SAF output
~11M litres renewable diesel output
Targeting FID in 2H 2026 and operations by end of 2028

32:20 - Project 2: Mandala (Gladstone) - HEFA
Feedstocks include tallow, used cooking oil, and domestic canola, plus exploration of future native crops.

33:39 - Closing reflections
SAF as the most practical near-term decarbonisation route for aviation and Australia’s chance to lead.

Funding Correction
Correction: Queensland Government grant value
In the episode, the Queensland Government grant was misstated as $660,000. The correct amount is $760,000.
Official announcement:
https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/100955

Guest Bio - Neil Gardner
Neil Gardner is the Executive Manager at Jet Zero Australia and was one of the organisation’s first employees, playing a key role in its growth from start-up to an emerging industry leader in sustainable aviation fuels. Neil has 20 years’ experience in the energy industry, leading teams of up to 200 people, and brings deep commercial and strategic expertise across the energy transition. He has held senior roles with Shell across Australasia, spent seven years with Arrow Energy (Shell & CNPC CSG JV) as Commercial Manager and Senior Advisor to the CEO, and is ex-Verbrec (engineering services across APAC). Neil holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Birmingham.

Links
Jet Zero website: https://jetzero.com.au/
Neil Gardner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-gardner-b223051/
Jet Zero on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jet-zero/

Show Notes & Timestamps

0:00 - Welcome to Exploring Clean Energy
Andy sets the scene for today’s topic: the innovations reshaping freight, logistics, and heavy vehicles.

1:05 - Introducing Today’s Guest: Corbin Luther (Volvo Group Australia)
Corbin outlines Volvo’s structure globally and in Australia, including the role of Volvo Trucks and Mack Trucks in local manufacturing.

3:45 - How Big is Volvo in the EV Trucking Space?
Discussion of global volumes, Australian production, and the rapid rise to 117 electric trucks now on the road, with more than 50 delivered this year.

6:10 - What Makes E-Mobility Technically Challenging in Australia?

Corbin breaks down:

• The constraints of aging electrical infrastructure
• Long distances vs short-haul suitability
• Market misconceptions about what electric trucks are designed for
• Fitting technology to specific applications

11:40 - Driver Behaviour: The Make-or-Break Variable

How telematics, regen braking, and driving style impact EV range, and why driver training is essential for fleets moving to electric.

16:30 - From Resistance to Enthusiasm: Changing Attitudes to EV Trucks

Real-world stories of sceptical drivers who change their minds within minutes of getting behind the wheel.

19:30 - Charging Infrastructure: The Volvo Approach
Volvo’s advisory role, partnerships with charging companies, and why they stay out of owning physical charging hubs.

23:05 - Decarbonising Heavy Transport: Electric, Hydrogen and Renewable Diesel (HVO)

A detailed breakdown of:

• Hydrogen fuel-cell trucks under development in Europe
• How HVO works and why it is a promising transition fuel
• European advancements and realistic timelines for change

30:50 - Fit for Purpose: Why There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Solution
How Volvo assesses a customer’s fleet, routes, power costs and operational realities before recommending EV adoption.

37:20 - The Economics: Total Cost of Ownership and the Sweet Spot

Why electricity price, kilometres travelled, and utilisation all determine whether an EV truck makes financial sense.

43:00 - Behaviour Change and Second-Mover Advantage
How sustainability pressure from customers, supply chains, and even employees is influencing fleet decisions.

48:00 - Government Policy: What’s Helping and What’s Not
Corbin discusses axle weight restrictions, the pace of ADR changes, and the role of ARENA-funded projects.

54:10 - Road Wear, Vehicle Design and the realigning misconceptions
Findings from Volvo and Austroads showing how tyre footprint and suspension design can reduce pavement impact.

58:40 - Operational Optimisation: The ‘Hidden’ Decarbonisation Tool

Route planning, idle time, fleet telematics, and the small daily decisions that reduce fuel and emissions.

1:04:30 - Battery Performance, Temperature Impacts and Real-World Range Modelling
How Volvo forecasts range using topography, historic traffic data, temperature profiles and aerodynamics.

1:10:10 - Looking Ahead: What the Next Decade Will Bring

Predictions on:

• Uptake of electric trucks
• Hydrogen’s likely role
• Growth of HVO
• How often EV trucks will be seen on Australian roads

1:15:00 - Final Thoughts from Corbin

Why the transition is gaining momentum, and why fit-for-purpose solutions will be critical.

Guest Bio - Corbin Luther

Corbin Luther is the E-Mobility Solutions Specialist at Volvo Group Australia, where he works directly with fleets, operators, and Volvo’s dealer network to support the transition to electric trucks. With a background in transport operations and fleet management, Corbin combines technical insight with deep knowledge of real-world trucking applications, ensuring customers put the right truck on the right job and adopt EVs in a way that is operationally sound, commercially sensible, and driver-friendly.

Website: volvotrucks.com.au
Corbin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corbin-luther-2598651b7/
Volvo Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volvo-group/

Episode topics & timestamps
00:00 - Welcome: How Windlab began, its CSIRO origins, and the evolution of wind development in Australia
02:05 - The integrated model: From mapping wind to delivering and operating full-scale renewable projects
05:10 - Development lifecycle: Why five to ten years is realistic and how early community engagement reduces risk
08:30 - Data and bankability: From LiDAR and met masts to ensuring project certainty
11:10 - Community engagement: Listening before telling, regional focus, and building trust early
16:05 - Common community concerns: Managing change, benefits, and consultation fatigue
19:40 - Industry reputation: Why one poor project can tarnish the whole sector. Windlab’s focus on raising the bar.
22:20 - Approvals and the EPBC process: Reform, complexity, and the need for certainty
26:50 - Biodiversity net gain: Practical examples from Windlab’s Gawara Baya project in North Queensland
30:00 - Site selection: Wind profile, demand centres, grid constraints, and coexistence with agriculture
33:15 – Technology improvements and turbine scale: 6-8MW turbines, 150m hub heights, and the limits of logistics
37:10 - Construction logistics: Workforce, site access, and the legacy benefits of upgraded infrastructure
40:00 - Rising costs: Global pressures, local solutions, and the power of competitive procurement
44:00 - Grid innovation: Turning connection risk into advantage with in-house grid engineering
48:10 - Project pipeline: Gawara Baya and Bungaban projects —Queensland’s next major renewable builds
52:00 - Policy reform: Implementing EPBC changes and “finding a way to do the good things that we must do”
55:00 - The decade ahead: Delivery, scale, and getting match-fit for the 2030s
57:30 - Follow Windlab: Staying informed via LinkedIn, project websites, and newsletters

Guest bio
Nathan Blundell is the Chief Development Officer at Windlab, leading a $30 billion portfolio and 20 GW development pipeline across Australia. Since joining in 2021, Nathan has overseen some of the nation’s most significant renewable energy projects, including the North Queensland Super Hub, Bungaban Wind, which secured Australia’s largest renewable PPA and Gawara Baya, the first project in the country designed around a biodiversity net-gain strategy. With over 20 years in the global energy sector, Nathan brings deep industry insight and a strong commitment to doing renewables the right way - delivering projects that respect Country, support communities, and protect the planet.

Links
Windlab: windlab.com
Nathan Blundell (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/nathan-blundell-b1601142
Windlab (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/company/windlab

Episode topics & timestamps
00:00 - Welcome: Why methanol belongs in the clean-fuels toolkit; episode overview.
02:10 - Methanol 101: CH₃OH, its uses, and why being a liquid matters for storage, handling, and retrofits.
06:05 - Shipping’s 3% problem: Clean combustion benefits, particularly near ports; the path from emissions control zones to green fuels.
10:00 - Carbon sources at scale: Biomass today, atmospheric CO₂ tomorrow—and the sustainability guardrails.
14:25 - Bell Bay “stack” of advantages: Green grid, plantation residues, deep-water berth, workforce, and power connection.
18:40 - Project scale: Why ABEL Energy sized Bell Bay to ~360,000 tpa—and how scale drives cost down.
23:15 - Global demand signals: New methanol-capable ships, bunkering hubs like Singapore, and meeting EU maritime rules.
28:05 - Technology choices: Bankability of tech, electrolyser selection, gasification.
33:20 - Water & utilities: Cooling vs. electrolysis demand; options for sourcing and treatment on site.
36:10 - Townsville pathway: “Reverse battery” flexibility, partnering with renewables, and behind-the-meter models.
41:00 - Policy & economics: Hydrogen production incentives, timelines to FID/operations, and why timing matters.
46:00 - Road to 2029/30: Funding, FEED readiness, and de-risking first-of-a-kind at Australian scale.
50:15 - What’s next: How listeners can follow ABEL Energy and help champion a new export industry.

Guest bio
Michael van Baarle is the Executive Chairman & Co-founder of ABEL Energy, an Australian industrial project developer focused on producing green methanol using green hydrogen and sustainable carbon sources. With nearly two decades across energy and infrastructure in Australia and the U.S., including methanol and DME, Michael co-founded ABEL Energy to catalyse a domestic green-methanol industry and position Australia as a regional supplier for clean shipping fuels and low-carbon chemicals.

Links
ABEL Energy: abelenergy.com.au
Michael van Baarle (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/michael-van-baarle-21994022/
ABEL Energy (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/company/abelenergy/

Hannah’s Highlights:

1:05 - Boeing in Australia & NZ: 98+ years, ~4,500 people, Melbourne composites, RAAF sustainment
3:50 - Why decarbonise aviation: ~2% of emissions today, APAC demand set to grow
6:15 - Boeing’s pillars: fleet renewal, advanced tech, operational efficiency, renewable energy, market measures
9:40 - Aircraft lifecycles (30–40 yrs) and retrofits: winglets, 787 curved wings, 777X folding tips
13:20 - Certification reality: safety testing - why it takes time
15:30 - Ops efficiency wins: smarter arrivals, single-engine taxi, collaboration with airports & ATC
18:10 – Carbon offsets to removals: CORSIA basics, first ocean-based removals MOU; green hydrogen by-product
21:05 - SAF 101: drop-in fuel, HEFA pathway, feedstocks (UCO, ag residues, MSW)
24:30 - Where SAF is today: blends to 50% certified across Boeing fleet; pathway to 100%
27:10 - Supply, policy & refineries: keeping feedstock onshore; AU & NZ outlooks
31:00 - Turnarounds & infrastructure: why SAF fits current refuelling ops; blending mandates
33:40 - Electric & hydrogen: use-cases, grid “greenness”, long-haul constraints for Australia
38:10 - Cascade 2.0: open modelling to test SAF, hydrogen, electric and grid scenarios
41:20 - Materials & circularity: composites, cabin “one-percenters” (lightweight recycled carpets)
44:30 - Barriers & opportunities: stackable incentives, global harmonisation, jobs & fuel security
48:10 - Final take: now is the moment - coordination across industry, government and communities

About Hannah

Hannah Monaghan is the Australia Lead for Sustainability Reporting & Governance within Boeing’s Global Enterprise Sustainability team (since Jan 2024). She joined Boeing in 2022 in Government Affairs after roles advising Australia’s Federal Minister for the Environment and the NSW Minister for Family & Community Services. An organic chemist by training, Hannah holds a Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry from UTS.

Connect with Hannah - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-monaghan-392249133/

Links

• Boeing - https://www.boeing.com/
• Boeing on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/boeing/
• Boeing on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/boeing/
• Cascade (aviation decarbonisation modelling) - https://cascade.boeing.com/
• Australia Aviation Outlook (Cascade) - https://cascade.boeing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Australia-Aviation-Outlook.pdf
• Boeing Hydrogen Factsheet - https://www.boeing.com/content/dam/boeing/boeingdotcom/principles/sustainability/assets/pdf/Hydrogen_Factsheet.pdf
• CSIRO–Boeing SAF Roadmap (2023) - https://www.boeing.com.au/news/2023/csiro-boeing-roadmap-charts-flight-path-to-sustainable-skies
• SAF State of Play (2024 update) - https://www.boeing.com.au/content/dam/boeing/en-au/pdf/boeing-and-csiro-saf-state-of-play-report-2024.pdf
• Wisk (autonomous electric air taxi) - https://wisk.aero/

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this episode, Andy Marsland sits down with Neil McDonald, CEO of Gold Hydrogen, to unpack an exciting investment announcement and explore the future of natural hydrogen and helium in Australia. From historical discoveries that have led to cutting-edge drilling programs, this conversation dives deep into the potential of hydrogen as a clean, cost-effective energy source, and how helium (including the rare helium-3) could revolutionise industries from quantum computing to power generation and transportation.

Neil McDonald is co-founder and Managing Director of Gold Hydrogen, one of the first companies in the world to confirm that high natural hydrogen deposits exist underground. Gold Hydrogen is now leading the race to commercialise hydrogen, a near carbon-zero energy source which would impact worldwide zero emissions targets.

Gold Hydrogen is also progressing helium opportunities, as the hydrogen tests also produced strong helium showings, one of the first major finds in a non-petroleum area.

Neil has more than 20 years of extensive commercial experience in the energy and minerals sectors and has helped commercialise some of Australia’s largest exploration projects for private and public companies.

What You’ll Learn

• The origins of Gold Hydrogen and its pioneering work in natural hydrogen exploration
• Why South Australia’s geology is uniquely suited for hydrogen and helium extraction
• The significance of helium-3 and its astronomical value
• How natural hydrogen compares to green hydrogen in terms of cost, carbon footprint, and scalability
• Insights into Gold Hydrogen’s strategic partnerships with Toyota Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical and ENEOS Xplora 
• The roadmap to commercial production and the role of infrastructure in scaling operations

Key Takeaways

• Natural hydrogen could be produced for under $1/kg, making it significantly cheaper than manmade alternatives
• Gold Hydrogen has confirmed helium purity levels of 36.9%, the highest ever reported globally
• Helium-3, valued at $15 million/kg, has been found in elevated levels in their wells
• The company’s exploration acreage spans 78,000+ square kilometres, with potentially enough hydrogen to power South Australia for 40+ years

 Resources & Links

• www.goldhydrogen.com.au
• Gold Hydrogen Investor Hub
• Gold Hydrogen on LinkedIn
• Press Release: Strategic Investment Announcement

If you’re as excited about the future of clean energy as we are, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more information or to connect with Gold Hydrogen, check out the links above.

Stephen Archer is the CEO of Warradarge Energy, a company leading the development of renewable hydrogen projects in Western Australia. Warradarge’s portfolio of projects covers diesel displacement, green iron, and green ammonia offtake markets. The company focuses on strong renewable resources and addressable offtake markets as a strategic focus. Stephen has spent over a decade in renewable energy and hydrogen project development, financing and execution. Most recently serving as WA State Manager for BP’s renewable energy division – where he developed over 2.6GW of grid-connected Solar, Wind and Battery projects, including Australia’s largest single-stage solar farm, and the renewable generation assets attached to some of the largest green hydrogen projects currently in development. 

Episode Summary

In this episode, Andy Marsland speaks with Stephen Archer, CEO of Warradarge Energy, about the company’s innovative approach to renewable hydrogen projects in Western Australia. They explore Warradarge’s three major initiatives: green hydrogen production, dual-fuel trucking technology, and green iron manufacturing. The conversation highlights the importance of pragmatic, scalable solutions in Australia’s energy transition.

­­­Topics & Highlights

1. Warradarge’s Mission and Strategy

• Developer of hydrogen projects in WA’s Midwest region.
• Focus on upstream and downstream market alignment.
• Three active projects: hydrogen production, dual-fuel logistics, and green iron.

2. Green Hydrogen Production

• 25 MW electrolyzer connected behind-the-meter to a 300 MW wind farm.
• Utilizes curtailed energy for hydrogen production.
• Targeting diesel displacement with identified offtake customers.

3. Dual-Fuel Trucking Technology

• Partnership with Newhaul and Fenix Resources.
• Retrofitting trucks to blend hydrogen into diesel intake.
• 30–40% diesel displacement; scalable and reversible.
• Technology developed by HW Richardson in New Zealand.

4. Green Iron Initiative

• Co-development of a 750–1000 MW hydrogen project for green iron production.
• Collaboration with Athena and Fenix Resources.
• Briquetting magnetite concentrate using renewable energy and hydrogen.
• Potential to offset ~4 million tonnes of CO₂ annually.

5. Challenges and Policy Needs

• Demand-side policy gaps and international collaboration hurdles.
• Hydrogen’s role as a “Swiss Army knife” – versatile but not universal.
• Importance of realism and pragmatism in project development.

6. Future Outlook

• Stage 1 construction planned for 2026.
• Stage 2 (green iron) targeted for 2030.
• Stage 3 (green ammonia export) in early development.

Notable Quotes

“Every achievement worth talking about was declared impossible before it was done.” – Stephen Archer
 “Hydrogen will assist, not replace everything.” – Stephen Archer

Links:

https://warradarge.com.au/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/warradarge-energy/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-archer/

Overview: In this episode, Andy Marsland explores the latest advancements in hydrogen and ammonia technologies with Phil Matthews and Troy Philpot. They discuss the potential of hydrogen and ammonia in the green energy sector, focusing on their commercial viability, practical applications, and the innovative technologies developed by Element One which are a potential game changer for the industry.

 Guests:
 
 Phil Matthews - Managing Director of Element One

· Phil is the Managing Director at Element One, where he has dedicated over a decade to advancing the green energy sector. With a specialised focus on hydrogen derivatives, Phil has driven significant research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing renewable energy applications. Phil's academic foundation in Environmental Science and Sustainable Energy Management underpins his commitment to creating sustainable energy solutions for the future. His notable technological contributions include the development of Kraktek, an innovative ammonia reformer and hydrogen purification technology, as well as Ammoniac, a cutting-edge solution for renewable ammonia synthesis.

Troy Philpot - Director of Origination at BE Power Group and consultant to Element One

· Troy is the Director – Origination for the BE Power group of companies. BE Power have over 18GWh of pumped hydro and energy storage projects, totalling around $6B in construction value, under development across Australia. 
 He has over a decade of experience in high voltage electrical infrastructure, services and energy transition projects, with the commercial arm of Energy Queensland, as well as a background in commercial strategy, marketing and business development. 
 Troy supports the Element One team, with insights into commercial viability, potential industry partnerships and helps drive innovation opportunities.

Key Topics:

1.   Introduction to Element One:

·         Phil Matthews introduces Element One, highlighting its focus on hydrogen carriers and the development of innovative technologies, Kraktek and Ammoniac.

·         The company's mission is to revolutionise hydrogen storage and transportation.

2.   Hydrogen Carriers and Transportation:

·         Discussion on the inefficiencies of current hydrogen storage and transportation methods.

·         Comparison between liquid hydrogen, compressed hydrogen, and ammonia as hydrogen carriers.

·         Phil's views on the volumetric energy density of hydrogen and the advantages of ammonia.

3.   Ammonia as a Hydrogen Carrier:

·         Benefits of using ammonia for hydrogen storage and transportation include existing infrastructure and higher energy density.

·         Comparison of ammonia tankers with liquid hydrogen ships in terms of practicality and energy efficiency.

4.   Innovative Technologies:

·         Introduction to Kraktek, an ammonia reformer.

·         The efficiency and purity of hydrogen produced using Crack Tech achieve 99.9999% purity.

·         Development of ammonium hydroxide as a safer alternative for hydrogen storage and transportation.

5.   Commercial Viability:

·         Troy Philpot discusses the economic advantages of Element One's technologies, emphasising cost-effectiveness and green credentials.

·         Discussion of how to produce green ammonia for under USD300 per tonne. 

·         The potential for ammonia to be a cheaper and greener alternative to traditional hydrocarbons.

6.   Safety and Practicality:

·         Addressing the toxicity of ammonia and how Element One's solutions mitigate these concerns.

·         The development of ammonium hydroxide as a safer, room-temperature liquid for hydrogen storage and transportation.

7.   Future Prospects:

·         Potential applications of these technologies in various industries, including transportation, mining, and agriculture.

·         The importance of industry partnerships and the role of universities in advancing these technologies.

·         The challenges of gaining acceptance and the need for first movers to adopt these technologies.

8.   Current Challenges:

·         There are difficulties in proving the technology and gaining wider acceptance.

·         There is a need for industry players with deeper pockets to adopt and scale these technologies.

·         The potential for overseas adoption before widespread use in Australia.

 Conclusion: Andy, Phil, and Troy wrap up the episode by highlighting the transformative potential of ammonia technologies in achieving a sustainable energy future. They emphasise the need for continued innovation and collaboration to overcome current challenges and make these technologies commercially viable.
 
 

Call to Action:

· Subscribe to the "Exploring Hydrogen" podcast for more insights into the hydrogen energy sector.

· Follow Element One and BE Power Group for updates on their latest projects and advancements.

· Check out the University of Newcastle's website for updates on their research and milestones related to hydrogen and ammonia technologies.

Links

·        https://elementone.com.au/

·        https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/hydrogen-compression

·        https://www.newcastle.edu.au/newsroom/featured/partnership-puts-green-ammonia-project-on-fast-track-for-real-world-use

·        https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-sh3energy/

·        https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-p-0084a212/

Episode Summary: In this episode, Andy Marsland welcomes Paul Hodgson to discuss the advancements, opportunities, and challenges in the hydrogen energy sector. Paul shares his extensive experience and insights into the role of hydrogen in decarbonising Australia and the world, focusing on its applications in transportation, industry, and society.

Paul Hodgson is Executive Director Regional Futures – Energy Transitions, and Director of the Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy at CQUniversity Australia. He is also Chair of Queensland Manufacturing Institute and Vice Chair of the Hydrogen Flight Alliance.

Prior to joining CQUniversity earlier last year, Paul was Interim CEO of a bid for a Scaling Green Hydrogen Cooperative Research Centre, developing a 10-year $213m research and training program with the support of 97 partners from 12 countries. Between 2017 and 2021, Paul was General Manager Innovation and Stakeholder Engagement (East Coast) for the Australian energy industry growth centre, NERA, where he led the development of a national network of regional hydrogen technology clusters.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Paul Hodgson's Background:
   • Roles at CQUniversity, Queensland Manufacturing Institute, and Hydrogen Flight Alliance.
   • Passion for regional development and sustainable energy.
2. Hydrogen's Role in Decarbonisation:
   • Hydrogen as a tool for hard-to-abate sectors.
   • Importance of decarbonising existing hydrogen production.
3. Current State of Hydrogen Projects:
   • Federal funding for low carbon liquid fuels.
   • Challenges and opportunities in the hydrogen sector.
   • The need for fewer, more collaborative projects.
4. Hydrogen in Industry:
   • Applications in ammonia production, steel industry, and refining fuels.
   • Potential for hydrogen to replace LNG and coal exports.
5. Challenges and Future Directions:
   • Importance of foundational work in safety, regulations, and community engagement.
   • The role of government and industry collaboration.
   • The need for a strong foundation to support commercial viability.
6. Research and Innovation at CQUniversity:
   • Focus on reducing hydrogen production costs.
   • Projects on raw water electrolysis and utilising excess solar energy.
   • Collaboration with international partners and other universities.
7. Global Hydrogen Landscape:
   • Australia's position and potential in the global hydrogen market.
   • Comparison with other countries' progress in hydrogen development.

Notable Quotes:

• "Hydrogen is now being seen much more sensibly as a tool in a toolkit for things that are hard to abate."
• "The world will do this with or without Australia. There are lots of competitors out there."

Welcome to Exploring Hydrogen, the podcast that delves into the emerging hydrogen energy sector's innovations, opportunities, and challenges. In this episode, host Andy Marsland speaks with Bob Criner, co-founder and CEO of Stralis Aircraft. With over 20 years of aerospace experience, including cutting-edge electric propulsion innovation, Bob shares insights into how hydrogen is revolutionising aviation and what it means for the future of travel.

Introduction to Stralis Aircraft 

• Stralis’ mission: Emission-free hydrogen-electric propulsion for aviation. 
• Breakthrough in lightweight, high-temperature PEM fuel cells enabling long-distance hydrogen-powered flights. 
• Progress towards first flight of Stralis’ demonstrator aircraft by late 2025 

The Hydrogen Advantage in Aviation 

• Comparison of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hydrogen, and batteries for decarbonisation. 
• Why hydrogen electric is the cost-efficient solution for flights up to 3,000 km. 
• The potential for reducing ticket prices and enhancing regional connectivity. 

Technology and Innovation 

• Stralis’ propulsion system: Liquid hydrogen tanks, innovative fuel cells, and electric motors. 
• Efficiency breakthrough 
• Developing robust and scalable systems for future commercial applications. 

Challenges in Hydrogen Adopt

 the Hydrogen Flight Alliance, including key partnerships with Brisbane Airport, QUT, and Fortescue. 

Future Vision for Aviation 

• Scaling hydrogen technology from small regional aircraft to larger fleets. 
• Long-term goal: 50-seat aircraft with 50% lower operating costs, reshaping point-to-point travel. 
• Potential to reignite regional air travel with cheaper, cleaner, and more convenient flights. 

Hydrogen Beyond Passenger Planes 

• Expanding hydrogen technology into cargo drones for extended range and payload capabilities. 
• Accelerating commercial adoption through real-world applications and partnerships. 

Insights for Startups in the Hydrogen Sector 

• Lessons learned from Y Combinator and the importance of founder communities. 
• Strategies for navigating the funding landscape and fostering innovation in Australia. 

Key Quotes:

"Hydrogen electric propulsion could redefine how we think about regional air travel—cleaner, cheaper, and more connected." – Bob Criner
"With innovations in fuel cell efficiency and lightweight design, we’re unlocking the future of long-range, emission-free aviation." – Bob Criner

Resources & Links: 

• Learn more about Stralis Aircraft: Stralis Website 
• Connect with the Hydrogen Flight Alliance: HFA.Aero 
• Stay updated with Stralis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stralis-aircraft/ 

Join the Journey
Thank you for tuning in to Exploring Hydrogen! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with friends and colleagues. See you next time as we explore more ways hydrogen shapes a sustainable future. 

Ep 26 – The ‘Rubbish’ (!) Episode. Converting Waste to Energy – With Wildfire Energy

Greg Perkins is a co-founder, MD and CEO of Wildfire Energy

His is an Innovator with more than 20 years of industry experience in the development of new technologies and projects for the energy and oil & gas industries, with 12 pending and granted patents. He has a passion for cleaner energy, technology, innovation and business strategy and is a former Adjunct Professor in Chemical Engineering at the University of Queensland, 2021-2024; MIChemE and CPEng

Greg’s relevant experience includes:

·         Experience across diverse functions from technology, project delivery, construction and operations as well as business development

·         Start up and commissioning of a $100 million USD natural gas gasification unit at a refinery complex in Malaysia

·         Design, operation and troubleshooting of numerous coal gasification projects.

·         Inventor of the moving injection gravity drainage (MIGD) process for heavy oil recovery.

Key Points and Discussion Highlights

1. Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Syngas
   • Wildfire Energy’s unique process converts various organic materials into energy, which can then be used to make a variety of energy vector including sustainable aviation fuels and syngas, through a patented batch system.
   • Unlike traditional methods, their technology eliminates the need for pre-treatment or sorting of waste, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
2. Localised Waste Management Solutions
   • Greg highlights projects in Pacific Islands such as Nauru, where waste is often left in open areas, creating severe environmental problems.
   • Wildfire’s system can convert waste into electricity, replacing imported diesel and reducing the environmental impact, while generating about 20% of the islands’ power needs.
3. Adaptable Modular Design
   • The technology is modular and scalable to suit communities of different sizes, from small rural towns to larger urban centres.
   • This flexibility supports localised waste management, enabling communities to address their waste issues directly while creating jobs and generating renewable energy.
4. Environmental Impact and Carbon Credits
   • Wildfire’s process achieves net negative carbon emissions.
   • The approach qualifies for Australian carbon credit units, further incentivising the diversion of waste from landfills and supporting broader carbon reduction goals.
5. Global Demand for Renewable Energy Solutions
   • Greg discusses the growing global interest in hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and methanol as energy sources for industries like aviation and shipping. 
   • Methanol, in particular, has significant potential in shipping and as an intermediate chemical for producing carbon-neutral plastics, contributing to a circular economy.
6. Financial Challenges and Market Adoption
   • Funding remains a key challenge due to the capital-intensive nature of the technology, with many venture capital funds hesitant to invest in such projects. Despite this, Wildfire has secured government grants and international support.
7. Future Outlook and Expansion Plans
   • Greg envisions Wildfire Energy expanding globally, with dozens of operational projects within the next decade.
   • The long-term strategy includes licensing the technology internationally, empowering communities worldwide to manage waste locally while generating renewable energy

Closing Remarks

• Andy and Greg conclude by encouraging listeners to follow Wildfire Energy’s progress via their LinkedIn page and monthly newsletter, where they share updates and insights.
• Andy invites listeners to subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on innovative clean energy solutions and thanks Greg for an enlightening discussion about tackling waste and energy challenges with transformative technology.

A link to their website and newsletters is below:

Wildfire Energy

Newsletters | wildfire (wildfireenergy.com.au)

Joanna offers a comprehensive overview of how hydrogen fits into Australia’s renewable energy landscape, from its potential role in industries like transportation and manufacturing to the challenges of scaling production and adoption. The conversation delves into the critical importance of certification programs for ensuring hydrogen production remains truly green, meeting rigorous environmental standards.

Together, they explore Australia's place in the global hydrogen conversation, comparing national efforts to those of international leaders like the European Union, the US, and Japan. Joanna also highlights the role of government incentives and global standards in shaping the future of green hydrogen and explains why ensuring harmonised certification is key for building a sustainable hydrogen economy worldwide.

Key Topics Discussed:

Introduction to the Smart Energy Council and Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia:
Joanna explains the work of the Smart Energy Council, which has been active in Australia for decades, representing the renewable energy value chain, including solar, batteries, wind, and hydrogen. Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia, established in 2018, focuses on both domestic and international hydrogen applications and derivative products like green ammonia and green metals.

Hydrogen Certification and Global Standards:
Hydrogen can be produced using various methods, not all of which are green. Joanna highlights the importance of Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia’s certification program—the only industry-led initiative in Australia—that ensures green hydrogen projects meet the global standard of less than one kilogram of carbon per kilogram of hydrogen. The discussion also explores how different countries define green hydrogen and the challenges of aligning these definitions to promote global trade and cooperation.

Comparing Australia’s Hydrogen Standards to Global Leaders:
Joanna and Andy discuss how Australia’s standards stack up against global leaders like the European Union and the United States, which have different carbon intensity thresholds for what they define as green hydrogen. They explore the complexities of developing a unified global standard and the opportunities it presents for Australia as an emerging leader in the green hydrogen space.

The Role of Government and Public Funding:
Joanna provides insights into how government incentives, such as the production tax credits in Australia, are playing a crucial role in supporting the growth of the hydrogen sector. They also explore recent findings from the International Energy Agency, which suggest that with proper public funding, green hydrogen could become the most cost-competitive hydrogen source by 2030, surpassing alternatives like blue hydrogen.

Future Vision for Hydrogen in Australia:
Joanna outlines the next steps for Australia’s hydrogen industry, including the expansion of green hydrogen into industrial processes, the potential for international trade, and how certification will play a key role in ensuring transparency and environmental accountability. She also shares examples of successfully certified projects, like Bristol Springs and Yarra International, which demonstrate Australia’s capability to deliver green hydrogen.

Notable Quotes:

• “What we're focused on is making sure hydrogen produced in Australia is genuinely green—meaning zero emissions. Blue hydrogen, which relies on carbon capture, may have its place as a transition fuel, but we’re advocating for true decarbonisation.” – Joanna Kay
• “By 2030, green hydrogen could outcompete all other forms of hydrogen globally if public funding is directed towards supporting its production.” – Joanna Kay

Episode Highlights:

1. Deep Dive into Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia:
   Joanna details the mission and structure of Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia, a division of the Smart Energy Council, which has been at the forefront of developing renewable hydrogen initiatives and projects across Australia. With over 200 members involved in hydrogen projects, the organisation plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of hydrogen in Australia.
2. The Importance of Certification in Hydrogen Production:
   Hydrogen certification ensures that green hydrogen projects meet strict carbon emission standards. Joanna explains the technical challenges of maintaining global consistency in certification and why it is essential for promoting international hydrogen trade and reducing the carbon footprint of industrial processes.
3. Global Comparisons of Hydrogen Standards:
   Joanna and Andy discuss the variations in hydrogen standards across different countries. For example, the US and EU have different carbon limits per kilogram of hydrogen, which impacts how hydrogen is classified as green. They also explore the potential for global harmonisation of these standards to facilitate international hydrogen markets.
4. Australia’s Role as a Hydrogen Leader:
   Joanna shares exciting details about Australia's growing influence in the hydrogen space, including key projects that have been certified as green hydrogen and the country's potential to become a significant player in the global green hydrogen market. She also talks about the importance of aligning state and national standards to strengthen Australia’s position.
5. The Future of Green Hydrogen:
   Joanna discusses the potential for green hydrogen to become the leading source of clean energy globally, driven by advancements in technology, government incentives, and growing demand for decarbonisation. With global targets on the horizon, Australia is well-positioned to lead the charge.

Resources Mentioned:

• Smart Energy Council: https://smartenergy.org.au/ 
• Zero Carbon Hydrogen Australia: https://smartenergy.org.au/zero-carbon-hydrogen-australia/ 
• IEA Report – the future of Hydrogen: https://www.iea.org/reports/the-future-of-hydrogen 
• Green Hydrogen Catapult Paper on Emissions accounting https://gh2.org/sites/default/files/2024-09/H2-Emissions-Accounting-White-Paper-Sept%202024-compressed.pdf
• Joanna’s LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/joanna-kay-057437216
• ZHCA LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-carbon-hydrogen-australia/ 
• Australia’s 2024 National Hydrogen Strategy https://www.dcceew.gov.au/energy/publications/australias-national-hydrogen-strategy 

Joanna’s full bio:

Joanna Kay is a highly respected voice in the renewable hydrogen landscape, holding the pos...

A huge shout out to the companies and individuals who were willing to share their learnings in this mini-series and embodying that sense of collaboration with the hydrogen community. So, to Plug Power, BOC, Amarna Energy and ATCO, Thank you.

Chris Dolman is the Business Development Manager for BOC. He’s been working across a number of areas including hydrogen to biomethane and other Gaseous vectors.

BOC is part of the Linde Group, one of the world's largest industrial gas and engineering companies and it operates in over 100 countries. The company supplies a wide range of gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen, which are essential for various industries such as healthcare, energy, and manufacturing.

Globally, Linde plc employs approximately 65,000 people and its operations include production facilities, distribution networks, and extensive research and development activities, making it a critical supplier of industrial gases and engineering solutions worldwide.

●     BOC's Role in the Hydrogen Industry

○     Supplying hydrogen globally for over 80 years

○     Operating 170 hydrogen production plants worldwide

○     Transitioning from traditional uses of hydrogen to focusing on hydrogen as an energy vector

●     Supply Chain Challenges

○     Impact of COVID-19 on international supply chains

○     Australia’s unique standards and challenges in hydrogen production

○     Difficulties in sourcing specialised equipment like electrolyser stacks and spare parts

●     Technical and Engineering Challenges

○     Managing electrolyser "turn-down rates" and balancing plant sizing

○     The complexity of "plug and play" refueler systems

○     Localising skills for hydrogen project engineering and maintenance

●     Australia's Hydrogen Projects

○     Insights from the BP-BOC Queensland refuelling project and Toyota Eco Park project

○     Hydrogen buses in Victoria and South Australia as a success story

○     Challenges and cost pressures in hydrogen hub projects, such as the Port Kembla Hydrogen Hub

●     Lessons for the Future of Hydrogen

○     Importance of having critical spare parts and skilled local workers

○     The need for collaboration within the hydrogen supply chain

○     Australia’s limitations in the hydrogen truck market due to right-hand drive and specialised truck configurations (e.g., B-doubles)

Key Takeaways:

This episode highlights the challenges and opportunities in the hydrogen energy sector, particularly from an Australian perspective. It emphasises the need for collaboration, innovation, and local skill development to overcome supply chain constraints and technical obstacles. The discussion also underscores the importance of planning for long-term growth in hydrogen projects, from sourcing materials to building local expertise.

Links

●     linkedin.com/in/chris-dolman-b2509710

●     https://www.boc-limited.com.au/en/index.html

Let me know what you think about the mini series. If you like it then we can try feature more companies with their case studies and learnings in future episodes. Please message me with any thoughts and feedback at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymarsland/ 

A huge shout out to the companies and individuals who were willing to share their learnings in this mini-series and embodying that sense of collaboration with the hydrogen community. So, to Plug Power, BOC, Amarna Energy and ATCO, Thank you.

Laurent Van Helden is Director of sales and market development with Plug Power in Australia.

Plug Power is a leading provider of hydrogen electrolyser and fuel cell systems. Founded in 1997, New York, the company focuses on developing and commercialising clean energy solutions The company's fuel cell technology is used by major corporations, including Amazon and Walmart, to power their fleets of electric forklifts and other industrial vehicles.

Plug Power's electrolysers are designed to support large-scale hydrogen production for various industries, including transportation, power generation, and industrial applications. The company has made significant investments in expanding its electrolyser manufacturing capabilities to meet the growing global demand for clean hydrogen.

Key Discussion Points:

●     PlugPower's Journey: Laurent shares PlugPower’s transition from producing hydrogen fuel cells for electric forklifts to becoming a key player in hydrogen production through the development of electrolysers. Starting with their acquisition of Giner in 2020, PlugPower has scaled up to meet the growing demand for green hydrogen.

●     Electrolyser Deployment in Australia:
Laurent explains how PlugPower is delivering one-megawatt electrolyser units to Australia. He details the process of adjusting their European-designed systems to comply with Australian standards, including electrical requirements and hazardous area certifications. This required extensive collaboration with Australian engineers and regulatory bodies.

●     Overcoming Standards and Compliance Challenges:
The conversation dives into the differences between European and Australian standards, such as the need to redesign units to meet Australian electrical clearances and hazardous area documentation. PlugPower appointed local experts to ensure compliance with Australian WorkSafe regulations and engaged clients throughout the process.

●     Future Outlook:
Laurent reveals that PlugPower’s first electrolyser units in Australia are nearing completion and are set to begin operations within the next few months. With commissioning underway, PlugPower is on track to power Australia's hydrogen projects.

Key Takeaways:

●     Collaboration and knowledge sharing are crucial to overcoming challenges in the hydrogen industry.

●     Navigating different international standards is a major hurdle in global hydrogen infrastructure development.

●     PlugPower’s ongoing projects in Australia are a testament to the growth and potential of the hydrogen sector in decarbonising industry and transportation.

Links

●     https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurent-van-helden/

●     https://www.plugpower.com/

 Let me know what you think about the mini series. If you like it then we can try feature more companies with their case studies and learnings in future episodes. Please message me with any thoughts and feedback at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymarsland/ 

This mini-series has been developed off back of some feedback from a few of our listeners who it would be useful and interesting to have more of a discussion from companies that have experience and can share real-life examples of any supply chain and import challenges 

A huge shout out to the companies and individuals who were willing to share their learnings in this mini-series and embodying that sense of collaboration with the hydrogen community. So, to Plug Power, BOC, Amarna Energy and ATCO, Thank you.

Alistair Wardrope is the Technical Director & Co-Founder of Amarna Energy.

Alistair has been working in the renewable hydrogen industry since 2006, starting his career in ITM-Power, and moving into offshore wind and nuclear generation in the UK. He moved to Australia in 2013 working for Jemena, becoming the technical lead for renewable gases, heading up Jemena’s hydrogen demonstration plant and biomethane injection plant. Along with Andrew Lelliott, they co-founded Amarna in 2019, a specialist renewable energy consultancy, providing engineering and project management to a range of leading hydrogen and cutting-edge renewable technologies. Amarna has offices in Sydney and Brisbane and supports a range of projects in operation, construction, and various stages of development.

Andy is joined by Alistair Wardrope, a seasoned expert with nearly two decades of experience in the hydrogen sector. Alistair shares his expertise on the current state of hydrogen in Australia, particularly focusing on the technical and logistical challenges of importing key equipment such as electrolysers, compressors, and gas storage units.

Throughout the episode, Alistair discusses:

●     The immature hydrogen sector in Australia, especially regarding electrolyser technology.

●     Common issues faced by hydrogen projects in Australia include compliance delays, installation problems, and quality control.

●     The importance of collaboration within the hydrogen community to overcome these challenges.

●     The relatively stable supply chain for compressed gas cylinders versus the more problematic areas like electrolysers and compressors.

●     Lessons learned from working with hydrogen technologies across different sectors and regions.

Alistair also emphasises the need for patience and collaboration, as these early challenges are typical in any emerging industry. As hydrogen technologies scale up and become more refined, many of these issues will likely diminish over time. He encourages developers in Australia to focus on strengthening local supply chains while relying on proven global technology for core components.

Key Takeaways:

●     The hydrogen sector is still in its early stages in Australia, with significant challenges related to the import of electrolyser technology.

●     Supply chain issues are common but can be overcome with collaboration and shared industry knowledge.

●     Developers should leverage local strengths in manufacturing and assembly to complement global technologies.

●     Patience is key- scaling up a new industry always comes with teething pains, but lessons learned today will drive future progress.

Links

linkedin.com/in/alistair-wardrope-82183b24

https://www.amarnaenergy.com/

Let me know what you think about the mini series. If you like it then we can try feature more companies with their case studies and learnings in future episodes. Please message me with any thoughts and feedback at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymarsland/ 

A huge shout out to the companies and individuals who were willing to share their learnings in this mini-series and embodying that sense of collaboration with the hydrogen community. So, to Plug Power, BOC, Amarna Energy and ATCO, Thank you.

Russell James is the General Manager of Hydrogen and Future Fuels at ATCO.

Russell has over 20 years’ of experience in energy, including the delivery of small to large-scale energy and utility infrastructure projects. Over the last 5 years, he has played a key role in all ATCO's hydrogen related activities, including the Clean Energy Innovation Hub

ATCO is a global infrastructure and energy company with headquarters in Canada, known for its diversified portfolio including utilities, energy, structures and logistics, and transportation. With operations in over 100 countries, ATCO employs around 6200 people

In Australia, ATCO operates a range of energy and infrastructure businesses, including transmission pipelines.

ATCO’s Journey in the Hydrogen Sector:

●     ATCO has been involved in hydrogen for over eight years and launched Australia’s first renewable hydrogen facility in Western Australia about four and a half years ago.

●     The Clean Energy Innovation Hub incorporates solar, batteries, and electrolysis, allowing hydrogen blending into the natural gas network.

Challenges in Hydrogen Projects:

●     Procurement of Equipment: ATCO had to source electrolysers from Europe and the US, navigating long lead times, shipping complexities, and significant upfront payments. This differs from standard procurement in gas and power divisions.

●     Compliance with Australian Standards: With limited local hydrogen standards, ATCO worked closely with safety regulators to ensure compliance, adapting equipment built to European and US standards.

●     Setting up Hydrogen Refuelling Stations: ATCO worked with the West Australian Government on the first hydrogen refuelling station, learning valuable lessons that helped streamline future projects.

Operational Challenges:

●     Maintenance and Local Support: ATCO worked closely with local companies to establish maintenance and support capabilities for hydrogen equipment, which helped foster the industry’s growth.

●     Global Supply Chain Pressures: High demand for hydrogen infrastructure worldwide is causing delays in equipment procurement and project timelines.

Success Stories and Adaptations:

●     ATCO overcame COVID-19 restrictions by using video technology to commission equipment remotely, highlighting the team’s adaptability in challenging situations.

Key Takeaways:

●     Hydrogen project timelines need to account for unexpected challenges, especially with new technology and suppliers.

●     Building strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulators is critical for project success.

●     Under-promising and over-delivering is a key strategy for ensuring that projects are completed on time and to the highest safety standards.

Links

https://www.atco.com/en-au.html

https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-james/

Let me know what you think about the mini series. If you like it then we can try feature more companies with their case studies and learnings in future episodes. Please message me with any thoughts and feedback at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymarsland/ 

A distinguished engineer and project manager, he is known for his expertise in megaprojects and his broad commercial acumen. Tim is dedicated to advancing the renewable energy industry and bringing innovation to the energy sector.

Overview of Ark Energy and Korea Zinc
Tim discusses Ark Energy's mission to decarbonise Korea Zinc's operations. He explains, "Ark Energy was formed to decarbonise the group, leveraging investments in renewable projects like the MacIntyre Wind Farm and Sun Metals Solar Farm."

MacIntyre Wind Farm and Sun Metals Solar Farm

Development of renewable energy projects and their integration with zinc refinery operations. Tim highlights, "MacIntyre is a one-gigawatt wind farm, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, aimed at local energy use and decarbonisation."

Expansion and Acquisitions

Ark Energy's acquisition of Epuron expanded its renewable energy portfolio to seven gigawatts. Tim states, "With the acquisition of Epuron, we now have a significant pipeline of renewable energy developments along the East Coast of Queensland and New South Wales."

SunHQ Project
Current construction status and challenges faced, including the impact of COVID-19 on project timelines. Tim shares, "SunHQ will be the largest integrated refuelling station in Australia, powering hydrogen trucks with green hydrogen from our solar farm."

Han-Ho Hydrogen Hub
Overview of the project and its current stage. Tim mentions, "We're targeting 1.8 million tonnes per annum of hydrogen production, backed by the development of our Collinsville Green Energy Hub."

Recent Budget Announcements
Analysis of the recent budget's impact on hydrogen projects in Australia. Tim observes, "The production tax incentive signals to our offshore investors that Australia is keen on green hydrogen and is putting money into closing the gap."

Challenges in the Hydrogen Sector
Addressing skill shortages and resource management in Australia. Tim notes, "We need to be mindful of the pressure on local communities and labour markets as we ramp up hydrogen projects."

Korean Contracts for Difference Scheme
Overview of the scheme and its impact on hydrogen projects. Tim explains, "The Korean government is prioritising green hydrogen, and with Australia's hydrogen production tax incentive, green hydrogen is looking favourable."

Tim's Trip to China
Insights from visiting major manufacturers and advancements in electrolyser technology. Tim shares, "China's scale-up for manufacturing hydrogen technology is impressive, but there's still a challenge to meet Australian standards and timelines."

Community Engagement and Social License
Importance of early engagement with local communities and addressing their concerns. Tim emphasises, "Social license isn't given; it's earned. We're working closely with communities to understand and mitigate impacts."

Project Challenges and Strategies
Balancing engineering and commercial aspects to ensure sustainable development. Tim states, "The biggest challenge is aligning all the puzzle pieces, from engineering to commercial agreements, to make these projects viable."

Future Vision for Ark Energy
Goals and expectations for the next decade. Tim envisions, "In ten years, we'd like to see Han-Ho operating, a green corridor between Korea and Australia established, and significant progress towards net zero."

Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Tim encourages collaboration within the hydrogen industry. He concludes, "The more projects we get over the line, the quicker we can bring costs down and transition to green hydrogen. We're proponents, not competitors."

Follow ARK Energy

Website: arkenergy.com.au 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/72066237 

Peter Goggin is the Manager for Hydrogen Development at Stanwell Corporation and has over three decades of experience in the electricity industry. He has worked in various capacities in business development, commercialisation, and project delivery in Australia and the UK. Throughout his career, Peter has developed projects across a wide range of domains, including solar PV, energy efficiency, battery storage, wind power, wave power, bioenergy, and waste-to-energy technologies.

1.15 - Intro to Stanwell

Stanwell is a Queensland Government-owned corporation. They have about 3. 2 gigawatts of coal-fired power generation and are moving towards the transformation of that generation base to a renewable energy future. Stanwell has about three gigawatts of renewable energy in its pipeline, either contracted or under development.

2.26 - Intro to Peter’s role

In his current role at Stanwell, Peter's primary objective is to establish a sustainable domestic business model in renewable hydrogen for Stanwell. His endeavours are centred around leveraging the potential and scale of the Central Queensland Hydrogen (CQH2) Project into the Queensland market.

3.20 - What does FEITH stand for and what is it?

Future Energy Innovation and Training Hub

●     The FEITH will develop the new technologies and workforce skills required to achieve Stanwell’s strategic objectives and the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan (QEJP).

●     In its ultimate form, the FEITH is expected to feature: a hub to demonstrate to the community a range of hydrogen applications, their safety, and the benefits to local and regional areas.

●     Medium-long duration battery storage, transmission and renewable energy integration technologies for the NEM, state-of-the-art workforce skills and technical training for trade, higher education and research, a world-class commercial-scale research and testing.

●     It will feature a precinct for innovation and technology validation and a servicing and maintenance workshop.

●     It will increase our understanding of new energy technologies and their application in building Stanwell’s renewable energy portfolio and driving the development of Queensland's hydrogen industry.

06.00 - What is an iron flow battery and what is the potential user case?

07.00 – Hysata’s electrolyser 

A revolutionary 4-5MW hydrogen electrolyser will also be validated in a pilot project at FEITH. The super-efficient electrolyser is being developed by Australian startup Hysata.

10.15 - The scaling challenge in the industry

11.36 - How does FEITH support Stanwell and the local community?

13.40 - What stage are you at with the project

-       Have commenced with the common infrastructure

-       Iron flow battery works will begin in the next few months

-       Phased development

-       We have received some funding from the QLD government from the QLD Renewable Energy Hydrogen Jobs Fund

-       Hoping to be ready for the Hysata pilot unit within the next 12 months

16.20 - What are the criteria that organisations go through before Stanwell decides to partner with someone?

Starts with us being aligned with the counter party with the objectives. On the technology side, it would be about the technology readiness level.

18.30 – Training at FEITH

-       Future pathways training is being developed

-       A range of different skills that need to be developed (cross-skilling and upskilling) 

-       Using that modern virtual reality type technology to get training opened up more broadly to users of the facility

21.40 - What are the biggest challenges you are facing at the moment

-       Scaling challenges

-       This is a brand new industry and there are a lot of new/novel things happening we need everyone’s support

22.53 - What does success look like?

“Success for me with FEITH would look like a precinct that's supporting that aspiration with some infrastructure already deployed with a vibrant environment there to show our community just what we're doing to take advantage of this great decarbonisation challenge we have on our hands.”

24.15 - Are there any types of technology that you are excited by?

27.00 - Recommendations for Australia and Queensland moving forward to help support the industry

27.45 – Collaboration is key. And the organisations that are working with Stanwell on the CQH2 project

31.25 - Key learnings

Be patient, it’s a complex thing and requires the willingness to be resilient. It’s a customer-led approach. 

https://www.stanwell.com/home-stanwell/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stanwell-corporation-limited/

The Exploring Hydrogen podcast has recently been ranked as number 6 in the top Hydrogen podcasts worldwide. If you enjoyed the content, we invite you to like and subscribe, and help spread the word (https://podcasts.feedspot.com/hydrogen_energy_podcasts/?feedid=5399109)

Introduction to Ariel:

Ariel Elboim a Senior Advisor for GHD working in the future energy market. A consultant for 10 years, Ariel has worked on the decarbonisation of infrastructure, and renewable energy projects across various sectors, including energy, water and transport. For the past 5 years, his focus has been dedicated to accelerating the growth of the hydrogen industry in Australia. He plays an active role not only through his project work for both private and public clients but also through his engagement with industry, including his position as H2Q Hydrogen Queensland Policy Advocacy Taskforce Lead.

1.45 - About GHD & Ariel's work

GHD is a globally recognised organisation operating in the markets of engineering, architecture, digital, water, energy, environment, and transport. Above 11,000 employees across 5 continents and 120+ offices.

Over the last 4 years, Ariel has been working holistically to accelerate the growth of the hydrogen industry in Australia, and that's been looking at strategic, tactical, operational projects, and more recently, at policy and policy mechanisms and how they can be conducive to the growth of the industry in Australia.

3.00 - The work H2Q Hydrogen Queensland is doing to help translate what industry sentiment is and how that can help inform government policy. They have been doing a lot of engagement and report writing over the last year with a white paper that was released over Christmas.

4.15 -Summary of the 5 levers & examples around the world

Lever # 1 - Tax Regulation

What can the government do in terms of regulatory standards and requirements to influence proponent behaviour, and what kind of tax levers can they use to influence taxpayers' behaviour? 

Regulatory standards and requirements that the government can implement to influence behaviour, or what kind of tax incentives or penalties can the government implement to also influence behaviour?

06.00 - Carbon prices around the world & the Safeguard Mechanism

08.20 - Lever #2 - Tax credits & subsidies

Tax credits and subsidies are an incentive-based policy instrument that provides market-compatible forms of direct government intervention.

09.00 - U. S. Inflation Reduction Act

This offers a tax credit of up to $3 per kilogram of hydrogen produced. That $3 per kilogram is based on the carbon intensity of the product.

10.06 - What can Australia do, even without having such ‘deep pockets’ as the US?

11.20 - Lever #3 - Market based schemes

Market-based schemes are interesting because they're an amalgamation of different mechanisms and they usually consist of a pull mechanism or a lever that tries to pull investment into the market, and a push mechanism, so it pushes proponents to do something.

12.30 - Lever # 4 - Contracts for Difference

This lever is getting a lot of attention across the world at the minute, especially in the hydrogen space. CFDs, Contracts for Differences, are financial contracts between a supplier and a purchaser of energy, provided a certain price. The Contract for Difference stipulates that the purchaser will pay the seller the difference between the market value at the time of contracting.

Essentially a market price is agreed upon, usually called the strike price, and this is based on several factors. It could be the level of CO2 emissions that are being abated. It could be the cost of the fossil fuel plus a green premium, whatever the market decides is a strike price, but everyone agrees that's the baseline.

14.45 - Review periods for Contracts for Difference

"Contracts for Difference usually last for about 10, 12, 15 years and by that point, the market will have readjusted to an equilibrium. And then you reassess it."

17.00 - "The biggest issue in the hydrogen space at the minute and the reason projects aren't getting past FID, or to FID, is because the premium on hydrogen just isn't suitable so you're not able to guarantee a revenue guarantee revenue stream and is probably the biggest killer to projects, from my understanding."

19.15 - Lever #5 - Financing Arrangements

Australia has been pursuing this lever for the last three or four years in terms of getting the hydrogen industry.

Essentially finance is provided as a means to mitigate the inherent risk in developing new projects, new industries, and creating new sectors.

21.20 - Backing of funding in Australia

“There's a difference between picking winners and making strategically good choices. The example is, that we're not going to see a major hydrogen passenger vehicle industry market in Australia anytime soon because the progress that EVs are making is just staggering.

However, if you look at large industries that are hard to abate, like I mentioned steel and iron and alumina, etc. they are clear good strategic options for hydrogen to be implemented."

23.30 - Disadvantages of using each of these mechanisms/examples of where they've not been rolled out successfully

●      Carbon leakage

●      Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
   

25.30 - Will we get to the stage where Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions are going to be monitored for all countries and organisations?

"One of the actions of the National Hydrogen Strategy was to create a guarantee of origin scheme, which essentially was a certificate to say that the hydrogen that you've produced is, has this carbon intensity.

And that essentially is going to accompany every kilogram of hydrogen in the future that is produced in Australia. So that indicates that the carbon emissions will be monitored very closely."

26.15 - Recommendations for Queensland & Australia

"An export industry based on an already established export-import relationship is a way to go. Australia doesn't have that much to decarbonize in the grand global scheme.

One of the key things to look for would be economic prosperity, and that lies in the export opportunity."

31.45 - Are the policies Australia has in place at the moment sufficient?

"Australia has announced a total of about $35 billion total to support hydrogen. And if you compare that too globally, which is about 350 billion, I think it's less than 10 percent of Australia's investment globally. And that's what it comes down to at the end of the day, the money."

"Australia does have a bit of catching up to do and that's why we're at such a pivotal moment."

33.30 - Hydrogen Head Start Program

The Program is essentially a $2 billion government fund to underwrite project operational costs by providing a production credit for every kilogram of hydrogen produced.

The Energy and Jobs Plan: Only a small fraction of the energy job plan fund has been tapped into because for it to ...

Denis Thomas is Director of Business Development and Marketing for water electrolysis at Accelera by Cummins, which has acquired the activities of Hydrogenics in 2019.

Before joining the company in 2014, Mr. Thomas worked 8 years in the solar photovoltaic sector in Europe. Mr. Thomas holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and in Renewable Energy.

Michael Bartsch is the Regional Sales and Business Development manager for water electrolysis at Accelera by Cummins. Before joining the company in 2020, Mr Bartsch worked for 26 years in a mixture of Mining, Petroleum, Water Treatment and Geothermal sectors. Mr. Bartsch is an Industrial Chemist with formal qualifications in Science, Business Administration and Energy.

Cummins is more than 104 years old, specialising in engines and gensets with 70,000 people worldwide. Accelera is a brand within the company that hosts all the new technologies and has five main businesses and between 2000-3,000 employees

2.30 – The main technologies within Accelera

-       Electrolysers

-       Fuel cells

-       Electrified components

-       Power train systems

-       Traction systems

4.00 – Explanation of the different types of electrolysers 
 

-       Alkaline
-       PEM
-       Solid oxide
-       Anion Exchange Membrane

06.30 - PEM - Proton Exchange Membrane. 

08.15 - Solid oxide and Anion Exchange Membrane

09.15 - Concerns about the catalyst being used in PEM technology

10.44 - Sizes of electrolysers that Accelera Manufacture

The products are PEM technology. 30 bar pressure. HyLyzer 500, 1000 and 5000.

13.00 - Interesting and challenging projects across the globe:

The Quebec project is commercial, meaning running the electrolyser daily. The hydrogen is liquefied and then delivered by Air Liquide to industrial customers.

15.30 – Emergence of much larger projects across the globe

Customers are now leaning more toward double-digit and triple-digit production.

16.26 - Learnings through the project in Canada

19.17 - Australian market compared to the rest of the world

The speed to market in the other locations is by far faster at the moment. In Australia, there is a push for regional codes and standards adoption. When products have to be modified before they can be introduced so there's a lag factor there in terms of being able to deploy or modify existing designs for them to be accepted.

“We will initially be importing products mainly from Europe, but it'll get to a point where the project size here in Australia is big enough to justify local manufacturing.”

24.15 – Manufacturing of the Electrolysers
“We've been working a lot on designing new processes and we are implementing them in the different factories. We have started already in Belgium, which was an existing factory. We have built another in Spain that will start production in the first quarter of next year. We will be using this flow-based manufacturing. It is super interesting because it gives us a lot of flexibility.”

25.00 – Current challenges

-       The business case of producing hydrogen; in many cases, it is more expensive than the conventional way of producing hydrogen with natural gas. 

-       The size is increasing, and there is an increased link with renewable power which also brings challenges.  

-       Electrolyser technologies are new so companies need to get used to it

-       Infrastructure challenges - hydrogen storage and pipelines

-       Execution capability

Regulation and policy can be used to play an important role in giving a premium value to hydrogen in comparison to the incumbent technology…Where there is a lack of policy, there is a high uncertainty on those projects, meaning that it is difficult for us to anticipate and forecast the market.

33.13 - Which skillsets will be sought after in the coming years?

35.00 – Advancements in technology

-       Keep monitoring the developments on the commercial market, from universities and institutions. 

-       Need to reduce the cost of technology and the cost of hydrogen (first step is standardisation). 
  

“If you can design a stack that you don't need to replace, it is, I would say, a major advantage. And that's clearly what we are trying to do is to extend the lifetime of our cell stacks.”

38.19 - What can be achieved by Accelera in the next 5-10 years?

-       We are targeting between 6 to 13 billion dollars in revenue by 2030

40.00 - Final thoughts/comments

“We are trying to leverage the synergies of the traditional businesses of Cummins with the new businesses of Accelera, allowing us to advantage of all the people and the infrastructure that we have in place in those 190 countries.”

-       We need stable policies to allow us to make decisions

-       Be patient as there will be a lot of challenges but it is super fascinating and motivating to work in this space

-       The hydrogen sector is like building a plane as we are taking off

Links:

https://www.accelerazero.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/accelerazero/

linkedin.com/in/denis-thomas-cummins

linkedin.com/in/michael-bartsch-48612117

Destinus is an organisation focusing on creating hypersonic air travel, which is five times the speed of sound, not just supersonic. That is travelling across the world sustainably in as little as four to five hours. They are a young startup company founded only two years ago. Destinus is already working in four countries in Europe; Switzerland, Spain, France and Germany.

Bios:

Bart Van Hove is the Head of Advanced Studies at Destinus. He studied mechanical and aerospace engineering. He became interested in hypersonics and fluid dynamics at the von Karman Institute, where he worked on hypersonic aerodynamic wind tunnels. He did his PhD on Mars atmospheric entry capsules and has been fascinated by astronomy and science from an early age. Destinus is as close to space as you can reasonably fly on Earth, in the stratosphere at Mach 5. While that’s slow for a planetary lander, it’s insanely fast for a passenger aircraft. Bart likes to work on difficult problems with interesting people.

Philip Silva is a Mechanical Design Engineer for Destinus. He has worked on cutting-edge technologies at the CERN particle physics experiments, the ITER fusion reaction, and has been involved in numerous hydrogen technology projects involving cryogenics and fuel cells. He is responsible for hydrogen business development at Destinus, including mobility and energy generation.

3.00 - Key learnings from the test flights:

The test flights now are subsonic so the aircraft are relatively basic, but they have some special features you don't see in any other plane. There are many things we want to learn about, and one of them is the shape of the aircraft. They are very aggressively shaped to be hypersonic, even though today they fly subsonic.

4.30 - Subsonic, supersonic and hypersonic:

Subsonic is under the speed of sound, supersonic is at the rate of sound, and hypersonic is classified as five times the speed of sound.

5.20 - Overview of Destinus’s Goals

We want to make commercial hypersonic flight real. We want to go a lot faster than Concorde. And we want to make the world like a smaller place where we can go anywhere in less than 2-3 hours. 

6.00 – Is Destinus focussed on specific uses vs revolutionising air transport as a whole

If you look at hydrogen in aviation today, it is usually focused on fuel cells, which is good for short, maybe medium-range travel. We’re working on combustion, and a lot faster. What we are working on is flying to the other side of the world and coming back on the same day. So that means no jet lag and a completely different way in which people will travel.

7 - Amount of fuel to have to keep on board

We're talking about several tons of fuel, which is not crazy in itself, but the volume of hydrogen is very large because the density is low. You have to store this hydrogen in a liquid form, which means it has to be cryogenic, very cold. That's one of the main challenges with these aircraft.

8 - The challenges, when you fly hypersonic compared to supersonic & refuelling

We are very heavily involved in the refuelling and the ground infrastructure. We have recently created a consortium to create infrastructure in an airport in France.

9.30 - Changes required when this comes to fruition

The aircraft are designed to operate at airports and they have to operate in airspace together with classical planes. That reality means we need to be compatible with the airports and beyond the fuel infrastructure and use the runways that exist.

10.30 - Safety aspects of having these aircraft

For the aircraft, we're going to be storing hydrogen in liquid form, so the pressure is very low. It's just much safer so if there's anything that happens the hydrogen will expand, but it will not explode, it will not create a shockwave, for example.

13.00 - Navigating through the legislation:

Hydrogen is slowly making its way into many industries. The operations and handling of hydrogen have been solved in specialized industries and will slowly make their way into the general society.

As for aviation certification and aircraft safety, the basic rules will not change. We have to think about how new technologies can satisfy those rules, but the rules themselves don't have to change.

15.10 - The progression of prototypes and where the design is aiming for in the future

The prototype aircraft is a progression of increasing complexity. We have been flying subsonic aircraft with hypersonic shapes, but subsonic engines, these are jet fuel. And incrementally, progressively, we are introducing hydrogen, going supersonic, later hypersonic.

16.30 - When is Destinus aiming for the first commercial flight and where is that likely to be?

The development of these aircraft will take at least 10 years. We cannot predict that commercial exploitation depends on a number of things like which customers are ready to buy are the regulations and the certifications complete.

17.00 - What other sort of challenges are you facing:

There is no shortage of people that want to work on this amazing project. On the other hand, there is some healthy scepticism. We believe we can do it, but we have to show ourselves and we have to show the world – so there is that promise to fulfil. 

There's also the transition to hydrogen in aviation. In general, there is a big discussion about whether to pursue hydrogen exclusively or whether to rely on sustainable fuels, which may be oils, but zero carbon, this is something long-term that requires a strategic vision.

19.00 - Additional information:

We publish a lot of information on LinkedIn, a lot of videos, and a lot of images. We're trying to keep the public informed. We're not trying to keep any secrets. So join us. Even join us professionally.

Destinus are trying to align our technological roadmap with as many spin-offs to really create what we call the hydrogen valley. From green hydrogen production to combustion, to energy conversion and energy storage. 

20.00 – When is the next test flight?

The next test flight is planned for the spring of next year. That will be the 3rd prototype which will ultimately go supersonic with a liquid hydrogen afterburner.

This will be the first time in history as well that somebody flies a liquid hydrogen afterburner on an aircraft. It is also a hybrid aircraft with a combination of jet fuel and hydrogen.

 21.20 - Cost of tickets:

The cost can be reduced to become close to an expensive ticket today if hydrogen takes off and scales up large enough in the future. 

22.00 - Realistically, what can be achieved by Destinus in the next 10 years?

Fully hydrogen-powered aircraft that fly Mach 5 should be totally possible in that timeframe.

One way to put it is, in the next 10 y...

Intro:

In this episode we’re geeking out about Hydrogen trains with Troy Shorley, Technical Director and Daniel Koning, Principal Consultant and Subject Matter Expert from Deutsche Bahn.

Deutsche Bahn currently has the largest fleet of hydrogen trains in the world, so in this episode, we enjoyed welcoming two of their experts on low and zero-emission technologies to take a deeper dive. DB Engineering and Consulting is working in 84 nations worldwide, providing railway engineering, and railway consulting operations services.

Deutsche Bahn Engineering and Consulting is part of the Deutsche Bahn Group in Germany, the owner and operator of the Rail Network in Germany. Deutsche Bahn Group employs 320,000 people worldwide and DB Engineering & Consulting employs over 5,000 people.

Bios:

Troy is an Electrical Engineer with over 20 years of experience in electricity, transmission rail and engineering consultancy.

He has extensive experience in rail traction systems, low and zero-emission technologies, and examining the different technologies and their interdependence within rail traction systems. He is an expert in system design, earthing, and bonding system integration, as well as construction and commissioning supervision.

Daniel is a subject matter expert for railway systems and low and zero-emission technologies. He has 21 years of experience in the railway sector and over 10 years focused on innovative railway technologies and digitization. He has worked on major Australian and international projects across Europe, the USA, and Latin America as the Lead Subject Matter Expert, at Zero Emission Technologies.

03.10 - What is the opportunity/use-case for Hydrogen Trains?

Introducing hydrogen technology to trains would significantly contribute to decarbonising the transport sector. Hydrogen can bridge non-electrified gaps in our network where battery systems will be insufficient and where overhead continuing electrification can't be justified because the line frequency is not high enough.

05.00 – What percentage of the railway network in Germany is electric? And the decarbonisation opportunity for high-speed trains displacing short-haul flights

Currently, 65% of the network is electric and achieving 100% is not viable due to some of the lines being rural and certain areas that are not populated so the cost of electrification is too high.

Another opportunity is the decarbonisation of Australia, and one of the strategies Germany uses to reduce the overall decarbonization of transport is to replace short-haul flights with high-speed rail intercity express services.

7:00- Other options available (eg Battery /Biofuels/synfuels etc) to decarbonise the sector

The best option for highly frequented railway corridors is full electrification since the overall system efficiency is roughly 85 to 90% and you can't beat that. 

When you can't justify full electrification for shorter routes currently up to a hundred kilometres that are non-electrified, then battery electric traction is a good alternative. You can recover braking energy and also have a higher system efficiency when the stretches are getting a little bit longer. Battery technology currently can't cope with that and also when the power demand is a little bit bigger, especially for freight transport. Hydrogen is a very interesting alternative, the fuel system can provide the range and combined with a battery system it can cope with a high power demand. And as an intermediate solution, we can look at renewable carbon-based fuels. They're also a way to quickly decarbonize railway traffic, and they are potentially a drop-in solution for existing diesel fleets.

9:10 - FFI is looking at ammonia for their train line supporting one of their mines in WA. 

Hydrogen is interesting, but the range you can achieve is limited due to the volumetric energy, density, and ammonia is a very interesting hydrogen carrier. So by using ammonia, you can store more hydrogen than in the compressed form. FFI and Deutsche Bahn are currently testing a retrofitted diesel engine on a test lap in Germany. We mix hydrogen and ammonia to a combustive gas, inject it into the engine and try to optimize the combustion process.

10:35 - Some of the differences in how Hydrogen Trains are operated and maintained

The hydrogen fuel cell trains effectively have an electric drive system, so they're very similar to the existing electric locomotives so they're very low maintenance schedule and cost for the electric drive system. The difference comes in with the energy system. The need for battery replacements and hydrogen fuel that are replacements. 

12.- Safety and Standards around the maintenance of hydrogen vehicles

There is work to be done with aligning the standards to achieve the safety required so there's no detriment to the current railway systems. It is the same transition as centuries ago coming from coal as the main source of a rail vehicle then transiting to diesel. Everything thought diesel, this combustible liquid, is very dangerous and new procedures had to be developed. So now it's transiting from diesel that people are very unfamiliar with.

14.48 - Where Germany is up to and what's the plan from here

A few smaller fleets have been tested in commercial operation. The first commercial operation with a larger fleet just started in December. The trains are operated by DB and there are another few public tender processes in place currently to procure additional fleets for different rural networks. 

The main reason for that is that the German government is really pushing hard for the decarbonization of the transport sector so there's a net zero target of 2040 for DB. 27 units currently being put into commercial operation near Frankfurt.

17.45 - Other projects DB are working on around the world

• Australia - DB is providing an introductory level of support by providing up-to-date information to organizations looking to implement the technologies so we can either guide or validate some of the strategy technology decisions that they are considering. The follow-on steps for that is also, to understand the Australian standards and how they view the introduction of hydrogen technologies into the rail environment.
• Brazil - Another solution done from Australia has been a feasibility study for Vale in Brazil. So looking at their Iron Ore operations are the route of 900 kilometres. Initially, they were looking for an electrification solution, so DB put together a combined battery and overhead electrification solution. They are now looking at Hydrogen options such as ammonia.
• United States - Support the team here from Australia to look at options for the Californian network to deploy hydrogen trains for their passenger services.
• Germany - A project Ecosystem that is currently ongoing, is a collaboration together with Siemens Group to develop a hydrogen ecosystem consisting of a novel...

Russell James has over 19 years of experience in energy and is experienced in the delivery of small to large-scale energy and utility infrastructure projects. He has extensive knowledge of gas and energy markets, pricing, and regulations. Over the last four years, he has led or played a key role in all ATCO's hydrogen-related activities, including the development of the Clean Energy Innovation Hub, conceptualising and sourcing funding from the WA Government Renewable Hydrogen Fund for the Hydrogen Vehicle Refuelling station, and securing $28.7m from ARENA to develop the Clean Energy Innovation Park - a commercial scale renewable hydrogen production project. 

1.30 - Background of ATCO

ATCO stands for Alberta Trailer Company and began with modular trailers, which grew into acquiring Canadian utilities in the 1980s, including electricity generation, gas processing, storage, and transmission. They have just celebrated their 75th year in operation.

ATCO has diverse business operations, including modular structures, power stations, and a gas distribution network - in Australia, the network has 800,000 connection points and a focus on renewables and hydrogen/future fuels.

4 - Humble beginnings

ATCO now has over 6,200 employees and over $22 billion worth of assets. It has been operational in about a hundred countries and has 75,000 kilometres of electrical power lines and 65,000 kilometres of natural gas pipelines. However, despite the growth, it’s a very family-orientated business.

“We do what we say we're going to do, and that includes supporting those communities where we operate, and also supporting our employees in what they're doing.”

4.45 - Clean Energy Innovation Hub
The project is an opportunity to showcase applications for the technology and the use of hydrogen gas in commercial, industrial and residential settings. 

“Energy security as you can imagine is extremely important particularly with our control room operation at the site, we can't afford to have outages because we're responding to those 800,000 customers, 24 7, 365 days a year”

6.45 -

●     Training facility at the innovation hub, which is a registered training organisation where they train all operatives to construct, operate and maintain the network.

●     Hydrogen courses at the facility

●     Have around 100 kilowatts of electrical demand at any point in time, 300 kilowatts of solar onto the rooftop.

●     Store excess renewables. 

● 200-kilowatt electrolyzer to convert water and split that through a proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, into hydrogen gas and oxygen.

9.35 - Key learnings

- Supply Chain challenges: “procuring an electrolyzer was different at that point in time when we were buying a 200-kilowatt electrolyzer. You couldn't go down to Bunnings and buy one off the shelf!!!.”

- Different procurement practices.

- Learning also included the integration of the regulations and standards and bringing the technical regulator along the journey as well.

The next Stage in the project was gas blending:

“The next step in the project and one we can talk about a little bit further is a blending project, which takes it out from behind the meter. We're actually blending out into around 2,700 homes and businesses around the Jandakot area.

11.30 - What percentage was it blended into the network and what percentage do you think you can get to?

13.19 - Collaboration in California with Southern California (SoCal) Gas

“...the approach that we like to take at ATCO is a ‘crawl, walk, run’. We'd rather learn on these smaller jobs and start to build to scale. And that's what we're doing, we're still focused on the large-scale export projects, but also let's build at manageable and build skill and capability.

With that project we're able to assist SoCal Gas to replicate what we've got through the hub and the hybrid home, which is another part of our site at Jandakot.”

15 - Clean Energy Innovation Park

“These days we've got people knocking on the door wanting to procure hydrogen and use it to really get the industry going. We’ve utilised the skills and expertise that we've built on the hub to now get to a 10-megawatt scale. And the facility that we've designed, we now can replicate. 

17 - Cost of Hydrogen

“The main factors that we see with the cost per kilo; there are some capital elements to it, but the main driver is energy input. It's, it's a very high percentage - somewhere in the region of 60-70%+ of the makeup in the cost of hydrogen. And particularly in Australia at this point in time with some of the energy volatility, which creates a challenge for hydrogen production. We need to see those costs continue to come down”

18.45 - The collaboration with FFI on the refuelling stations. 

700Bar refueler, co-located at Jandakot Clean Energy Innovation Hub.

Electric vehicles definitely have a place as do fuel-cell electric vehicles – Hydrogen cars are also electric cars which people sometimes forget. The difference is how the power is getting delivered into that electric motor.”

23.40 - Range anxiety and refuelling stations

I think it is quite important that we take a jurisdictional approach and, a geographical approach to where these are located.

“On the East coast of Australia it's been really good to see the States combining and look at things like the hydrogen highway between, New South Wales and Victoria and Queensland and how that can integrate. That's a really important part of the nation coming together.”

25.45 - Where does Australia sit in comparison?
Australia has to move on quite quickly, and a coordinated national framework would be beneficial. This will allow people that are looking to invest in hydrogen to move forward. The challenge is who pays for it - and that's always the question. 

27.30 - What are the biggest challenges within your team at the moment? 

“We're a small team, but we're very agile and, and nimble and we've got some really strong skills and capability within the team. However we need to focus on projects that are going to start to move the dial and get to commerciality.”

This is an industry where collaboration is key. Each party has a role to play. There's enough to go around for everybody in order to achieve the goals of export into 2030, 2040 and beyond. So in this early stage, it is working together with like-minded companies and users. And that's not only domestically, but also internationally to start these projects moving - and recognize where we all can work together for the greater good.

It is an important step to build skill, capability, expertise, and knowledge here in Australia. And also, to increase the size of projects to get to export. We need to show that Australia has a real opportunity for hydrogen.”

34.30    - Collaboration with Suncor Energy in Canada

34 - Low Hanging-Fruit  - including Gas distribution networks and the transportation sector.

35  <...

This episode uncovers Frontier Energy's flagship project from advancements to challenges, offtake, community engagement and more. Tune in to find out for yourself how hydrogen can contribute to the decarbonisation of Australia and the world.

0.30 - Intro to Guest: Sam Lee Mohan, MD & CEO of Frontier Energy

Sam has 20 years of experience in the energy and utilities industry, including design, construction, strategic asset management, regulation, policy, commercial and innovation. Previous appointments included Global Head of Hydrogen for Xodus Group and Senior Manager for Innovation at ATCO.

1.30 - Intro to Frontier Energy

Frontier Energy is an ASX-listed, renewable energy company, based in WA. Its flagship project is developing a 114MW solar farm, tied to a 36MW (electrolyser) hydrogen production plant at Bristol Springs. Stage one will produce 4.4Mkg of hydrogen p.a., growing to 73Mkg p.a. It will also roll out a re-fuelling station in “the Perth CBD.” Construction begins at the end of this year. 

2.48 - Update on the stage of the project

The project is currently at an advanced stage. The location is one of the fundamental aspects as it is located 120 km south of Perth. It is connected to water and power infrastructure. 5km from major transport routes. The main focus at present is securing offtake. Commissioning is projected for the first half of 2025 and hydrogen production in the latter part of 2025.

4.05 - Deeper dive into the project:

Daytime power comes from the solar plant. Off-peak power from the grid, so utilisation is around 75% to achieve the best price/supply combination. The challenge is to develop the right production at the right scale at the right time. In time the 114MW could be scaled up to just over 1GW.

Challenge is deploying the right technology, at the right time, at the right scale.

6.19 - Having access to world-class infrastructure is fundamental to kick-starting this industry and having foundation projects the industry can anchor on.

6.45 - Resources:

Solar is the cheapest form of energy production at present. Excess Photovoltaic electricity can be sold into the grid, and then drawn back during off-peak periods. LGC (large generation certificates) credits gained from green energy production are retired against the purchase of electricity from the grid, of unknown (green/brown) origin and this creates a net zero footprint. The end result is that low-cost electricity is supplied to the WA grid. We are using the grid as a virtual battery.

9.34 - Access to clean water:

The plant is located within a kilometre of the Stirling Trunk Main pipeline, this is one of the most strategic assets across Western Australia. The water is sourced from the Southern Seawater desalination plant and the Southern dam, ensuring a reliable, low-cost supply; this allows a huge saving in desalination and bore (drilling) costs. Future supply has also been secured for the stage one requirements, 750k/l per day actually being four times the need, to 1,250k/l per day for stage 2. So projected growth is catered for and the demands from yet unknown tertiary growth are also covered.  

11.30 - Gas:

The Dampier - Bunbury pipeline currently transfers offshore natural gas in North Western WA down to the demand areas of Perth & surrounds. It also supplies the huge power needs (with resultant emissions) of the Alcoa smelting plant, downstream from Bristol Springs. The pipeline already has the technical capacity to take in hydrogen from the Frontier Energy plant, without any disruption to its own supply or customers. Statutory changes that will legalise the process are already in advanced stages.     

"The political environment is set in order to enable Hydrogen to be projected into the pipeline both from a legal perspective as well a technical perspective."

13.25 - Workforce:

The town of Collie (population 8k) is 57 kilometres from the plant. The power station is due to close there and Frontier Energy will be able to offer workers construction jobs (initially) and ongoing jobs at its plant. Other towns are similar distances away and Perth is only a 70-minute drive.

Manufacturing hydrogen commercially is difficult because one has to match supply and demand throughout. It’s essential to assist and work with early adopters and the government to ensure that the recipients are not penalised for making staged switches to Hydrogen consumption. 

17.10 - Costs:

Other green hydrogen producers are quoting potential production costs of over $6 per kilo of hydrogen, compared to Frontier’s of around $2.80 per kg. Income from the exported (to the grid) electricity is used to offset some of the operating costs through the reserved capacity markets. Low-cost electricity supplies the hydrogen plant. This allows a daytime energy input cost that is actually negative. (-$15 a MWh).  Night-time electricity drawdowns cost around $50 - $60 per MWh. The net cost of power for the electrolyser is around $35 per MWh. The solar plant cost $166m and the hydrogen plant $72m. After the CAPEX is paid off, the hydrogen production cost falls to $1.50 per kilo, a rate that is similar to the natural gas equivalent. 

With scaling up to 1GW, the operating costs fall further to around $1.30/.20 per kilo. This is fundamental as reduced costs for early users will accelerate uptake and broaden the demand base. 

27.02 - Community engagement:

Positive feedback as they see possibilities for high-paid, skilled jobs in the community, encouraging retention of youth etc. The project has “State Significant” status with the WA government, with fortnightly meetings. 300 jobs at the construction stage, and 50 in operations. Construction is likely to be ongoing with Stage 2, etc. for the next 5 - 10 years. The hydrogen side is likely to require workers transitioning from electrical etc to the less familiar, new technology, with regulatory, compliance approvals, and engineering challenges. The hydrogen economy is a race, and we are competing with incentivised and supported industries in countries, such as the US and UK. We are well supported by our governments, but project-by-project assistance will be required, or our most skilled people may be tempted abroad. 

25.50 - Other learnings to date:

Investors are interested, but they need to understand the appropriate risks and incentives. A conducive political environment, and favourable emissions targets from the government making access easily available to new gas and electricity infrastructure, at the time of construction, will make it easier and cheaper for other potential hydrogen producers and this is to be encouraged. A proposed government incentive is being progressed that will require 80% of its 2050 emissions targets to be achieved by 2030. This will incentivise early-stage hydrogen developments.

29.40 - Challenges:

"How advanced are you in the maturity of the hydrogen industry?"

Hydrogen suppliers need to marry up their supply with nasce...

Paul’s Highlights:

1:10 – About Endua

1:37 – Paul’s background

3:15 – The Hydrogen sector and how Endua is solving the energy storage problem.

5:30 – About Endua’s power bank

7:57 – Endua is building a fully self-contained system that has the ability to expand its’ capacity economically

9:35 – Funding for start-ups in Australia and Endua’s partners.

11:35 – Focussing on customer’s first is always vital for start-ups 

13:30 – Advantage of being based in Queensland

15:15 – How do we build local hydrogen supply chains

16:35 – Parallel journey with Tritium

18:20 – Community and eco-system is key to building a local industry

18:54 – Government support for the industry

19:55 – Importance of a social licence and engagement

23:35 – Speed to market and commercialisation point 

25:50 – Endua’s targeted customers 

26:59 – Microsoft using hydrogen back-up systems

28:55 – The importance of getting involved in the sector

Links

Endua’s website: https://www.endua.com/ 

Paul’s Bio: https://www.endua.com/team 

Paul Sernia’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-sernia-212aaa/ 

Tritium’s website: https://tritiumcharging.com/ 

Tim’s Highlights:

1:25 – MAN Energy Solutions the company 

1:58 – Marine sector emits 2-3% Global Emissions; MAN’s two stroke engine has a very large portion of this market and therefore has a very big role to play in decarbonisation

2:31 – Four major areas of green transitions: inputs, generation, transport and storage, as well as transitioning back into work

4:09 – How big is MAN Energy Solutions?

4:45 – Tim’s most passionate area – How do we reduce our carbon intensity? 

5:41 – Carbon intensity vs carbon colours

7:50 – Opens the conversation of customers adding a value on carbon intensity in everyday products

9:58 – Alternative fuels – looking at the four major areas of green transitions

13:10 – There is not one solution to the carbon dilemma 

14:28 – The grouped solutions will also need iterations of contracts and transactions

15:20 – Certifications 

15:40 – Carbon accounting instead of green accounting 

16:30 – Energy efficiencies 

17:24 – Deliver energy in a more carbon effective way – needs to be cost effective

18:25 – Bill Gates’ book – How to avoid a climate change disaster

19:10 – We need to live in today; so that clear actions are taken and started 

22:10 – Biggest challenge – At the moment there is no real value in reducing carbon intensity 

23:50 – Power industry and industrial industry 

24:00 – Power industry needs to ensure that they don’t have stranded assets 

25:05 – Industrial industry needs to ensure that they have a viable business plan

26:40 – First mover disadvantage 

27:25 – Cardon intensity needs to be part of the conversation

28:30 – There is a perception that hydrogen is going to be super cheap

29:00 – Cost of the projects and cost curves 

32:00 – Carbon equalisation tax structure

32:20 – Value the carbon itself

33:30 – What is Tim excited about? 

35:30 – Where does Tim see us in 10 years? 

Links

MAN Energy Solutions’ website: https://www.man-es.com/ 

MAN Energy Solutions’ LinkedIn Company Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manenergysolutions/ 

Timothy Meyers’ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-meyers-4935a1145/ 

Sidenote: Timothy finished working for MAN in August 2022. For any future enquiries about MAN please contact Karl-Heinz Berdais karl-heinz.berdais@man-es.com

Heather’s Highlights:

1:25 – Toll Global Express business overview

3:02 – The energy transition of their fleet

4:31 – Various solutions for the supply chain

5:05 – Allegro and the board’s support paired with CEO Christine Holgate’s passion about decarbonisation

6:25 – When is the right time for decarbonisation with a high volume and low margin business?

7:55 – Are customers willing to pay a green premium? 

9:20 – All bids and tenders have an ESG component including decarbonisation, minimisation of waste, diversity inclusion as well as a priority in local jobs 

10:30 – The smallest fleet components first 

11:40 – Clean energy regulator is working on a new carbon credit methodology

12:40 – EVs for trucks is very complicated – the weight, conditions, productivity, and driver behaviour

15:00 – How critical is refuelling time? 

16:15 – What does the depot of the future look like?

18:15 – Unlikely to see large Hydrogen vehicles in this market until the end of this decade 

19:20 – Jobs and skills are a big factor that needs to be considered

21:30 – Regulatory body decisions are still a big unknown for the sector

22:00 – Decarbonisation is a community effort – working with the entire supply chain 

24:00 – Australia is unique with many learnings from other markets not directly translating

25:30 – Can’t afford for anyone to fail – creates a chain effect 

27:20 – How is Coles, Woolworths, Ikea and Office Works partnering with Toll Global Express?

28:30 – Charging stations and hydrogen networks 

32:20 – New age cowboys

33:00 – What can be achieved in the next 5 years?  

34:30 – Vehicle manufacturers’ (OEM) distance to the Australia market

35:20 – What makes Heather, as Toll Global Express’s Director of ESG successful? 

38:40 – Get in touch; this is a community effort

39:30 – Hydrogen Connect Summit 2022

About Heather
Heather Bone is Director ESG for Toll Global Express. She has more than 20 years experience in renewable energy, environment and sustainable development, strategic and business development, safety, marketing and communications in mines, energy, waste, transport, logistics and manufacturing in Australia and internationally.

Links

Toll’s website https://www.tgexpress.com.au 

Allegro Funds – https://www.allegrofunds.com.au/ 

Heather Bone’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bone-0ab192b/ 

Hydrogen Connect Summit 2022 - https://hydrogenconnect.com.au/ 

Patrick’s Highlights:

1:06 – Patrick’s career journey so far

2:48 – Ampol’s history

4:04 – Ampol’s decarbonisation strategy 

5:10 – Business-to-business portion of Ampol – approx. 80,000 business customers

5:50 – Decarbonisation milestones and progression towards these 

6:50 – Overview of Australia’s fuel economy including hydrogen and Ampol’s hydrogen’s positioning

9:45 – What is biofuel?

10:25 – Potential future market % of different fuels

11:15 – Application of hydrogen in the transport sector 

13:30 – Refuelling infrastructure overview

15:10 – Refuelling infrastructure on the Australian East Coast

16:45 – Important lessons from the fuel supply chain 

17:30 – Safety elements for hydrogen refuelling

18:20 – Supply chain development 

20:00 – Challenges of moving towards the decarbonisation 

22:10  – Acceptance and understanding of the role of hydrogen; highlighting social licence and engagement 

25:40 – Certification scheme for the industry 

26:40 – Accelerating the transition

28:15 – Workforce requirements to make the transition a reality

29:58 – Australia being a leader of fuel cell electric vehicles 

30:56 – An enormous undertaking to get to net zero emissions for transportation

Patrick Luxton’s Bio

Patrick is General Manager of Hydrogen at Ampol Australia. The born and bred Kiwi is responsible for growing and transitioning the business’s Australian hydrogen operations. With over 16 + years’ in fuel and energy, Patrick is at the forefront of the business’s decarbonisation strategy and how it will become a reality.

Links

Ampol’s website https://www.ampol.com.au/

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/42373409/admin/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AmpolAustralia/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ampolaustralia/

Patrick’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-luxton-a45b87221/

We dive deeper into the National Hydrogen Roadmap, what a potential hydrogen hub looks like and CSIRO’s research into hydrogen priorities, the opportunities that lie ahead and some exciting technological focuses for the organisation. 

Daniel’s Highlights:

1:24 – Daniel’s career journey so far

4:05 – Who is CSIRO?

5:36 – What is CSIRO doing globally in the hydrogen space?

8:03 – The National Hydrogen Release Roadmap and how the nation is aligning over the last 4 years

11:16 – Suggestions for hydrogen supply and demand and bringing on end users quicker

13:29 – What does the potential hub look like?

15:45 – Hydrogen embrittlement and its impact on existing gas networks 

17:18 – CSIRO’s research into hydrogen priorities and its opportunities 

23:07 – Some of CSIRO’s projects and focuses 

25:07 – Efficiency and technological improvements in the electrolyser space

28:22 – Gas network opportunities and advancements 

29:35 – What does hydrogen-fuelled transportation look like?

36:29 – Energy systems and its long-term hydrogen storage

38:48 – Hydrogen industrial processes and its advancements, opportunities and potential challenges

43:36 – Waste to energy, gasification and the sector’s advancements/value-adds

48:36 – Where does Daniel see the renewable energy industry in 5 years?

50:17 – How you can follow CSIRO and their research work

Daniel Roberts Bio

Daniel is the Research Director for CSIRO’s Energy Technologies Research Program, where he manages CSIRO’s portfolio of collaborative, industry-focussed RD&D across a range of low-emissions energy technologies including hydrogen, solar, bioenergy, CO2 capture and use, energy storage, and alternative fuels. Most recently he led CSIRO’s Hydrogen Energy Systems Future Science Platform, a broad initiative supporting the long-term success of the emerging hydrogen industry. 

Daniel has over 25 years research experience in gasification and its applications, having worked on research projects domestically and internationally, and remains a senior researcher in the area of emerging bioenergy pathways.

Links

CSIRO’s website https://www.csiro.au

HyResource – Hydrogen Project information HyResource (csiro.au)

Daniel’s LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/daniel-roberts-csiro

We learn about Synergen Met as a business and how their methane pyrolysis technology provides a pathway to decarbonisation. We also discuss how turquoise hydrogen technology can leverage existing infrastructure, comparisons between green hydrogen and turquoise, where the team see a high demand for jobs & skills within the hydrogen sector moving forward, the future of Hydrogen within Australia and what Synergen Met is hoping to achieve over the next 5 years.

Chris’ & Vikram’s highlights:

1:31 – An overview of Synergen Met

3:26 – What is turquoise hydrogen and are there any by-products?

6:28 – Synergen Met’s hydrogen technology processes and its advantages. 

8:18 – What does a unit of hydrogen look like and how much is produced?

11:04 – Breaking down methane gas states

12:17 – Uses of carbon black 

13:09 – Carbon revenue streams vs hydrogen revenue streams 

14:08 – Comparison of technology between turquoise hydrogen and green hydrogen from solar/wind.

16:03 – Challenges within the Synergen Met business and how they are overcome 

19:03 – The main demand for jobs and skills within the hydrogen sector

20:36 – Looking into the future of Hydrogen within Australia 

24:03 – What is Synergen Met hoping to achieve over the next 5 years?

26:30 – PFAS - Other exciting uses of Synergen Met’s technology 

29:40 – What does success look like for the hydrogen sector?

33:06 – A final word from Chris & Vikram 

Christopher Dunks Bio:
BEng(Mech)

Christopher is a founding shareholder of the Company.

Christopher has spent the past 26 years working on major minerals processing, refining, power, industrial technology and software development projects both in Australia and the USA. Christopher was a Founder and Executive Director of ASX-listed Elementos Ltd (ASX:ELT). Christopher’s experience is in mechanical design, construction management and supervision, project controls, project management, contract negotiation, business development and new technology commercialisation.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-dunks-b2679a8/

Vikram Anenden Bio:
Vikram brings 17 years of operational experience in commercial and technical roles with Tier 1 energy power operators and utilities. His professional interests span from asset management, corporate evaluation, commercial law, economic modelling to sustainable energy investments. As an engineer with economics and legal interest, he is committed to influencing policies and developing commercial strategies towards the decarbonisation of the intensive carbon emitting industry he belongs to.

Synergen Met Website: https://www.synergenmet.com/

Jemena owns and operates a diverse portfolio of energy assets across northern Australia and Australia's east coast. They operate more than $11 billion worth of major utility infrastructure and are backed by the resources of shareholders, State Grid Corporation of China and Singapore Power. Jemena accounts for a variety of assets, but ultimately provides central services supporting the uptake of renewable energy in city developments and contributing to Australia’s the long-term transitional future to renewables, including hydrogen and biomethane projects. 

1:16 - Alistair and Gabby’s journey to Jemena and ancestry in the energy industry 

3:20 - About Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre

4:20 - Biomethane production process

4:35 - Overview of Jemena 

6:54 - What’s the renewable gas team at Jemena working on?

7:57 - Rundown of the Western Sydney Green Gas Project  

9:29 - 5-year test program 

11:11 - What percentage of gas is blended at WSGP

12:00 - MOU with Hyundai and Core Gas and what the off take will be used for?

13:55 - The challenges overcome with the Western Sydney Green Gas Project

16:22 - Characteristics of Hydrogen and how is Jemena working to make commercial Hydrogen safe.

17:28 - Beyond 2030 - How do we get to pure hydrogen through the gas network?

20:15 - What broader changes would you like to see for the hydrogen industry? 

23:50 - Hydrogen vs Electrification 

25:10 - Production prices of hydrogen

26:30 - How much additional storage do you envisage for the future?

28:00 - Sewage to energy: Malabar Biomethane Project

29:40 - Certification, International Collaboration and ISO standards

30:05 - Jemena’s 5-year look-ahead

34:33 - Innovative developments – the imperative need to adapt and modify 

39:10 - Formula One and net zero

Links:

Keep in the loop with Jemena’s innovations in renewable gas: Innovation - Jemena

Gabrielle Sycamore

Gabrielle is an experienced senior commercial manager specialising in leading teams, managing complex commercial projects and enhancing commercial outcomes.  With 16 years’ experience in the energy sector, Gabrielle also has expertise in finance and business development.

Gabrielle Sycamore is General Manager – Renewable Gas at Jemena, where she is leading the implementation of the gas networks long term decarbonisation strategy. This includes collaborating with gas users, industry partners and governments to accelerate the integration of renewable gases into the gas network and enabling future network products and services. Gabrielle sits on the boards of Bioenergy Australia and the Future Fuels CRC and is a member of the Energy Networks Australia Gas Committee and Australian Hydrogen Centre. She has a Masters of Business Administration from Deakin University, a Bachelor of Commerce from Curtin University and is a Graduate member of the Australian Institute of Directors.

Alistair Wardrope:

Alistair is a Mechanical Engineer with 15 years professional experience working in the energy industry, starting his career with a well-known British electrolyser manufacturer in 2006, he has been involved in evolving renewable hydrogen technologies since.  He has worked on major European power generation utility projects including nuclear, biomass, offshore wind and solar and more recently energy distribution with Jemena. 

In his role as Technical Lead – Renewable Gases, Alistair has been actively involved in the technical development of Australia’s first hydrogen and biomethane projects co-funded by ARENA.  He has been continually active on a range of industrial and academic platforms, ranging from introducing hydrogen and electric vehicles to the IMechE formula student in the UK establishing some of the earliest zero emission motorsport events.  Alistair is also an industry lead contributing to the Future Fuels CRC and is actively engaged in developing Australian Standards

With Andrew’s 25 years of international experience in the energy sector, senior management roles and executive roles in multinational energy companies, Andrew provides valuable insights into Hiringa’s innovative developments and 5-year plan in the hydrogen refueling sector, and New Zealand and Australia’s hydrogen landscape.

Hiringa Energy is a clean hydrogen company focused on developing the hydrogen value chain to assist  decarbonisation at scale, this is being pursued via the heavy transport area in Australia and New Zealand.  The Hiringa team borrows heavily from energy, oil and gas backgrounds and clean tech skills and techno-economics in order to excel the uptake of hydrogen in refueling heavy vehicles. To demonstrate the efficiency of emissions reduction in the heavy transport sector - the volume of CO2 reduced by one hydrogen powered truck is equivalent to 150 cars’ emissions. Hiringa acknowledges the need for meaningful partnerships in the transition to new energy and developing investable propositions – the energy to change, together.

1:30 - About Hiringa - developing the hydrogen value chain and commercialising green energy

4:30 - Hiringa’s heat map and refueling stations roll out across New Zealand 

6:30 - Efficient capital to emission reduction: high capacity refueling back-to-back – 100 heavy vehicles a day, 10-15min to refuel large vehicles

11:45 - Beyond heavy transportation sector, what other areas is Hiringa locking into? The benefits of variety of energy trading 

16:21 - Unlocking the commercialisation of hydrogen and accelerating demand, up against the 150 years of economy of scale

24:10 - Potential for seasonal storage of hydrogen in New Zealand - virtual battery

26:36 - Potential for green ammonia powering sea vessels and assisting transport of hydrogen overseas

29:30 - Why is New Zealand’s green transport more advanced than Australia and many nations? First mover advantage, government policy and the ecosystem

33:30 - Nimble business environment in New Zealand – promotes elegant business strategy for hydrogen development

35:00 - What policy and business strategy changes would you like to see in Australia?

37:50 - The path to co-founding Hiringa... Silicon Valley style set up

44:45 - Five-year aspirations for Hiringa - strong refueling network growth in New Zealand, and across to Australia and beyond...

48:30 - How can Australia become a leader in hydrogen 

50:10 - Together is the way towards decarbonisation 

Andrew’ Bio:

Andrew is a co-founder and CEO of Hiringa Energy, a company actively developing green hydrogen infrastructure across New Zealand and Australia including one of the world’s first nation-wide green hydrogen refuelling networks. 

He has over 25 years of international experience in the energy sector having held a number of senior management and executive roles in multinational energy companies. 

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Mechanical/Electrical Engineering and is a board member of the New Zealand Hydrogen Council. 

As CEO of Hiringa Energy he has worked to bring the hydrogen opportunity to the forefront in the energy transition, bridging new energy models with the existing industries and building partnerships across sectors. His passion is to unlock commerciality and accelerate our transition to zero emission energy systems.

Andrew Clennett LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-clennett-81bbb4/

Hiringa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hiringa-energy-ltd/

Hiringa Website: www.hiringa.co.nz

With Jacques’ 20 years experience in strategy, corporate development, business transformation his role at LAVO straddles the whole value chain: corporate development, investment, R&D; Jacques provides insight into LAVO’s hydrogen storage developments and outlook for the next 2 years, hydrogen industry updates, and the advantages of hydrogen in comparison to lithium batteries. 

LAVO is a venture between Provenance Asset Group, an ESG dedicated firm, and UNSW’s hydrogen center, LAVO is the world’s first technology and lifestyle brand powered by green hydrogen. Named in honour of Antoine Lavoisier, the French chemist who identified Hydrogen and nicknamed the father of modern-day chemistry, LAVO’s aims to power the world with limitless energy. 

1:00 - About LAVO – world’s first technology and lifestyle brand powered by green Hydrogen ‘powering the world with limitless energy’ 

4:15 - Appearance of LAVO. Metal hydride storage units and the home and business applications 

9:14 - LAVO unit residential application  

10:14 - LAVO’s strategic priorities across different markets of residential, telecommunication towers, commercial and off grid back up – 5 units across 5 states 

13:45 - HEOS unit for solar and wind farms: 13 MWh system. 18T metal hydride. Generating green hydrogen 

15:40 - HEOS - advantageous for the defense sector 

17:05 - LAVO’s goals for the next 2 years – commercial focus 

20:52 - Fuel cell project in Springfield manufacturing facility joint venture with Nedstack  

23:00 - How can Australia drive advanced manufacturing and benefit from exporting renewable technologies? 

24:20 - Industry-wide policies that would assist the growth of the hydrogen sector 

26:45 - State collaborations to avoid potential regulation issues 

28:05 - Unit water usage – a little goes a long way 

29:20 - Why would a consumer choose a LAVO’s unit over a battery? Energy security, safety, sustainability, lifespan, scalability, lifetime cost comparison 

30:55 -  Sustainability and efficiency comparison: LAVO unit vs lithium battery 

39:10 - Most exciting advancements in the hydrogen sector 

Jacques' Bio:

Jacques Markgraaff is an accomplished executive with over 20 years’ experience in strategy and corporate development and business transformation combined with breadth in commercial and sales management across multiple industries. Prior to joining LAVO as the Chief Operating Officer he was the Executive Advisor at Providence Asset Group the primary investor in the company. Jacques has worked internationally for some of the world’s leading management consulting, financial services and CPG companies with a successful track record of achieving a balance of breakthrough commercial, strategic and customer results. Jacques is a passionate campaigner for growing the top and bottom line through purpose driven innovation and sustainability centered design while transforming the customer experience using disruptive digital technologies. Jacques holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Law degree and an MBA from Imperial College London. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquesmarkgraaff/

Website: https://lavo.com.au/

Chris’ highlights: 

1:36 - The Hydrogen Rainbow   

4:51 - Hydrogen Launching into the space sector   

11:26 - What more could the Australian Government do to support a transition to Hydrogen?  

14:15 - The 5-year outlook for Australia’s Hydrogen industry  

18:02 – Hydrogen storage, projects and technology on a large scale 

21:00 - Weird and wonderful Hydrogen approaches 

21:51 – Current BOC Hydrogen activity 

24:56 - Adapting skills from other sectors in recent projects during Covid-19 

27:18 – Hydrogen technology in vehicles 

30:16 - How can Australia (and its standards) assist the industry to grow? 

15:38 – Exportation and infrastructure opportunities on an international level 

39:21 – Aviation, shipping and Hydrogen  

41:49 - Chris’ final message to listeners 

Chris Dolman Bio: 

Chris Dolman is Business Manager, Clean Energy for BOC South Pacific. 

Chris holds degrees in Bachelor Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from Macquarie University and a Diploma in Marketing from Cambridge Marketing College. 

Chris has worked for BOC since 2004 both in South Pacific and in the United Kingdom and has held a number of roles across product and marketing management, business development, acquisitions, sales and health & safety during this time. He has extensive experience in the applications of gas across key growth sectors including universities and research, agriculture and clean energy. 

Chris has been led key Hydrogen Product Stewardship initiatives with Hydrogen deemed a Controlled Substance in Australian states as well as creating tools to allow hydrogen safety assessments and business case development. He has also been involved in new hydrogen applications from Mobility to Energy and customer specific applications. 

Chris is an active member of the NERA hydrogen clusters as well as various state based Zero Emission working groups. This allows Chris to bring an extended network to any board positions including project developers and members of Standards Australia for Hydrogen and the Australian New Zealand Industrial Gas Association which has been working with hydrogen safely and effectively for decades. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-dolman-b2509710/?originalSubdomain=au 

Phil’s Highlights: 

2:26 - Phil's contribution to the Queensland Government and the transition into the commercial renewable energy space with Stanwell Corporation 

3:33 - Stanwell Corporation – a leading energy provider for Queensland  

4:30 - The split between solar and wind projects at Stanwell Corporation  

5:21 – How is Hydrogen fitting into the energy mix at Stanwell Corporation? 

7:34 - Stanwell Corporation’s geographic focus and projects within 

8:32 - Joint venture partners in Japan and Australia

10:10 - The renewable energy supply chain – advancements and challenges  

12:23 - Opportunities for job seekers in the renewable energy sectors 

13:53 - Stanwell Corporation’s phase 1 wind and solar project in Queensland 

15:57 - Green vs Blue Hydrogen (and the rest of the Hydrogen Rainbow)  

17:49 - What has not aligned with Stanwell Corporation’s risk profile and direction of business? 

19:24 - Getting the wheels turning on the exciting renewable energy projects and what it takes to make them happen 

21:23 – Lessons learnt from the recent LNG cycle and how Stanwell Corporation are navigating the social licence and the partnerships within the community moving forward 

24:15 – Ammonia, compressed Hydrogen gas and liquified Hydrogen mechanism mediums for exportation purposes and their benefits vs challenges  

26:36 - Australia’s Hydrogen decarbonisation ambitions – funding, policy changes and taxation changes 

28:30 - Producing green hydrogen and its current costings vs long term targets 

29:45 – Where Phil sees Hydrogen and decarbonisation in the future and hopes for Australia’s renewable energy sectors 

31:43 - What does success look like for Phil (and Stanwell Corporation) in 5-years time? 

33:26 - The unprecedented hype in the Hydrogen sector right now 

35:08 – Aviation and battery electric vehicles vs fuel cell electric vehicles  

36:23 - Phil’s final message to the audience  

Phil Richardson Bio: 

Phil has 15 years experience in developing strategy and executing commercial projects and economic policy reforms, with a focus on the energy sector. 

As General Manager New Energy Projects at Stanwell, Phil’s role is to deliver a range of renewable energy, energy storage and hydrogen projects as part of Stanwell’s portfolio strategy. 

Prior to joining Stanwell, Phil held roles in the Queensland Government, including General Manager renewable energy and energy pricing in the department of energy and Director Economic Policy in the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. In 2008, Phil spent a year working in the Pacific Islands with the United Nations Development Programme. 

Phil holds a Master of International Economics and Finance, Master of Governance and Public Policy and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-richardson-42525121/ 

Stanwell Corporation Website: www.stanwell.com 

Stanwell Corporation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stanwell-corporation-limited/ 

Peta’s highlights: 

2:00 - Peta’s current clean energy roles with the industries she works with  

3:34 - More about the Queensland Hydrogen Taskforce  

6:08 – Social identity in the renewable energy sectors 

8:21 - Current public perceptions of Hydrogen and its safety 

10:50 – So what is Hydrogen Energy, why now and net zero emissions by 2050 

19:16 - The route straight to “green” – is it achievable? 

23:13 - Exporting opportunities – molecules, skills & technologies   

28:26 - Industries building trust within the community and the importance of collaboration  

32:55 - What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and its challenges / advancements?  

38:41: Queensland’s competitive advantage in developing the Hydrogen industry 

40:54 - Queensland’s Hydrogen and Decarbonisation sectors – new opportunities & changes 

42:03 - What does success look like for Peta in 5 years? 

43:16 - Jobs that are going to be highly sought after in the Hydrogen space 

45:09 - How can we participate and contribute to the industry? 

Peta Ashworth OAM Bio: 

Professor Peta Ashworth OAM is the Director of the Andrew N. Liveris Academy for Innovation and Leadership, Chair in Sustainable Energy Futures at The University of Queensland (UQ), and Chair of the Queensland Hydrogen Taskforce. Professor Ashworth brings over thirty years’ experience working in a range of senior management, consulting and research roles. Prior to joining UQ in 2016, Peta worked as a consultant to industry, as Research Group Leader at CSIRO, and in senior executive roles for the Body Shop. 

Professor Ashworth is a globally-recognised expert in the fields of energy, communication, stakeholder engagement, and technology assessment. For almost two decades, Peta has been researching public attitudes toward climate and energy technologies, including wind, carbon capture and storage (CCS), solar photovoltaic, storage and geothermal. An accomplished speaker and facilitator, Professor Ashworth is actively involved in building energy literacy more broadly both within Australian and globally, and regularly provides input to policy briefings, think tanks, as well as educational events for the benefit of the broader community. 

Peta’s contributions to the field of sustainable energy include leading the social science research program of the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute, as well as working alongside Australia’s Chief Scientist in the development of Australia’s National Hydrogen Strategy. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peta-ashworth-oam-5502002/ 

Resources: 

https://alumni.uq.edu.au/liveris-academy 

https://energy.uq.edu.au/ 

https://www.epw.qld.gov.au/about/initiatives/hydrogen/taskforce 

https://www.globalccsinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Global-CCS-Institute-Fact-Sheet_What-is-CCS.pdf