The study hopes to demonstrate the commercial and technical feasibility of establishing a renewable hydrogen hub and the production of hydrogen-derived products at AGL Energy’s Torrens Island power plant site.

GHD Advisory, an independent advisory firm, will head up the study which aims to map key operational and commercial plans for the project with a development timeline, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.

It is hoped, if the study proves successful, the proposed Torrens Hydrogen Hub could provide energy security benefits as well as contributing to Australia’s efforts towards decarbonisation.

AGL has said it intends for the project to drive the development of new skilled local jobs across energy production, advanced manufacturing, recycling, and chemicals production.

H2 View understands, AGL Energy has also partnered with Adbri, Brickworks, Flinders Ports, INPEX CORPORATION, Osaka Gas Australia, SK ecoplant, and Spark Renewables, for the study, leveraging on cross sector expertise.

Markus Brokhof, CEO of AGL Energy, said, “This is another big step forward in AGL’s vision for an industrial energy hub at the site of our Torrens Island Power Station and we are coming closer to repurpose the site.

“With the strong support of large industry partners, AGL’s vision is to establish a clean hydrogen industry in Adelaide, and support the creation of an energy efficient, low-carbon ecosystem and circular economy.

“South Australia is emerging as a leader in the development of a hydrogen industry, led by a major investment in the sector by the State Government. AGL very much wants to be a key part of the future of hydrogen in this State.

“Whether it’s the early potential for co-firing hydrogen with our existing gas engines at Barker Inlet Power Station, the creation of 100% green gas networks for industry, or the development of low-carbon chemicals and future fuels right through to the production of green hydrogen for export, this feasibility study will explore it all.

“In line with our vision for energy hubs, we’re working closely with industry so that the development of hydrogen facilities is at the appropriate scale and with the right timeframes and product types to support both local and export industries in their own decarbonisation journeys.”