CSIRO is planning to deliver a $5 million program to strengthen research connections and collaboration between Australian research institutions and international hydrogen research organisations.
The Hydrogen Research, Design, and Development (RD&D) International Collaboration Program will build on recent collaborative efforts between the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources and CSIRO, in developing an ‘Australian Hydrogen Researcher Network’ — established to better connect Australia’s hydrogen research community with each other and the new international program.
Proposed program activities include supporting researcher exchanges, developing collaboration tools and events, and enabling sharing of knowledge about research relevant to hydrogen and its derivatives, such as ammonia.
Federal Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, Angus Taylor, said the program will help promote strong relationships with research agencies in partner countries, to accelerate the development of a clean global hydrogen industry.
“The Morrison Government is positioning Australia to be a world-leader in the production of clean hydrogen as well as a trusted and reliable exporter to our trading partners,” Mr Taylor said.
“Investing in R&D and building connections with international partners is critical to Australia building and growing our own globally competitive industry.
“We recognise the important economic and job opportunities becoming a major global hydrogen player will deliver, while also lowering emissions.”
Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Christian Porter, said the program will build domestic capability, drive innovation and play to Australia’s strengths in hydrogen research and commercialisation.
“This investment in international research collaboration will deliver a range of insights and outcomes, enhance Australia’s international reputation for excellence in science and innovation, and translate research activities into viable technologies with tangible commercialisation outcomes,” Mr Porter said.
“This program will also improve our understanding of future hydrogen supply chains and markets, and help us to harness the potential for an Australian clean hydrogen industry to grow our economy and create Australian jobs.”
Hydrogen is a key priority under the Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap, with the Federal Government investing over $1 billion to support Australia’s clean hydrogen industry.
The Federal Government has also entered into partnerships with Germany, Singapore and Japan to accelerate the development of low emissions technologies, including hydrogen, which will drive investment in Australia.
