Australia’s TasPorts signs deal to progress green hydrogen project

LONDON (ICIS)–Australian ports operator TasPorts on Tuesday announced the signing of an option agreement for land and operating access with the developer of a proposed 250MW green hydrogen plant in northern Tasmania.

The deal with Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) brings the planned 250,000 tonne/year green ammonia project in the port of Bell Bay a a step closer, the state-owned company said.

“Aligned with TasPorts Port Master Plan and our commitment to facilitate trade for the benefit of Tasmania, the signing of this agreement supports the organisation’s commitment to work with proponents and customers to enable new and emerging industries,” stated TasPorts CEO, Anthony Donald.

“Securing land is one of the critical ingredients to enable the realisation of green hydrogen developments at Bell Bay and TasPorts is proud to be taking a lead role to support the renewable energy industry.”

The senior executive added further opportunities exist within the industrial precinct and TasPorts is working with other proponents to support the government’s Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Action Plan.

Last month, Australian’s FFI teamed up with IHI Engineering Australia (IEA) and IHI Corporation to investigate the creation of a green ammonia supply chain between Australia and Japan.

The trio signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly assess the economic and technical feasibility of supplying green ammonia produced in Bell Bay for transport to Japan for blending into existing power generation.

Tasmania is eyeing the potential of green ammonia and green hydrogen through a state-of-the-art project at Bell Bay. Photo courtesy of TasPorts