In a joint agreement, Australia and Germany have committed to commercialise and purchase green hydrogen – a major step in Australia’s plans to export green hydrogen around the world.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison and German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, signed a joint declaration on 13 June 2021 at the G7 Plus meeting, stating the commitment of the two countries to commercialise and purchase green hydrogen.
As Germany is pursuing net-zero emissions by 2045, demand for emission-free energy will be even greater than previously planned. Australia, with its vast assets of renewable energy, is in a prime position to satisfy significant parts of the demand.
Christoph von Spesshardt, Executive Director of the German-Australian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, said, “We are in the midst of an unparalleled revolution to decarbonise our industries. It is of paramount importance to choose the right partners at the very start.
“This joint declaration is building on an already established partnership between our two like-minded countries and will enable the decarbonisation of German and European industries.”
Dr Michael Zettinig, Head of Governmental Affairs at the German-Australian Chamber, said, “Our governments have been working together very closely to achieve this joint declaration.
“It is a great win for Australia as a future exporter and for Germany as a purchaser and technology partner. This gives both countries a competitive edge in the global hydrogen landscape.”
The German-Australian Hydrogen Alliance, established by the German-Australian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Australien) in 2020, provides a platform for exchange between Australian and German stakeholders and accelerates projects.