The Gippsland Circular Economy Precinct (GCEP) has signed an agreement with H2X Global to establish Gippsland as a centre of excellence for the development of hydrogen-based industries.
The agreement sets in motion an ambitious plan to manufacture hydrogen fuel cells, electrolysers, hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles, and a range of hydrogen power units including generators and emergency power supplies.
GCEP is a consortium of Gippsland-based businesses that have recognised the need to transition the local economy toward renewables.
H2X is an automotive and power unit company focused on sustainability and harnessing the most efficient and effective technologies, with the onus on capturing free and renewable energy sources.
Brett Singh, Executive Director of GCEP, said Gippsland’s high level of engineering, power generation and manufacturing expertise was a major factor in the decision to establish the centre of excellence and renewables precinct in the area.
Scott McArdle, CEO and King Arthur Executive Director, said the corporate players attracted to Gippsland in regard to renewable opportunities was strong.
Mr McArdle said the community support has also been very strong and the need for jobs and industry transition is extremely important.
Mr McArdle said that signing the agreement with H2X Global, an international leader in the development and manufacture of fuels cells and hydrogen powered vehicles and machinery, would help to fast track the plans for the Gippsland precinct and the overall economy of the region.
The H2X product range includes utilities, vans, trucks and buses. H2X has developed its own highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell technology and hydrogen power trains to install into its vehicles and machinery.
H2X recently engaged in a strategic partnership with listed Hydrogen producer Pure Hydrogen (ASX:PH2).
Brendan Norman, CEO and founder of H2X, said the Gippsland venture was one of the most exciting opportunities to build a successful hydrogen economy that he had seen.
Mr Norman, who is preparing to attend COP26 with H2X as an Australian representative company, praised the GCEP group for their thorough planning and development of the circular economy concept.
“This is a great opportunity for Gippsland to engage with hydrogen technology and provide new enterprises new jobs and training in support,” Mr Norman said.
“We aim to assist in establishing Gippsland as the world’s preeminent location of green hydrogen excellence. We are now investigating a number of manufacturing options including fuel cell production and some vehicles.”
The team members of GCEP, (via Solis Gippsland Projects) have also originated several renewable energy projects in the Gippsland region, including: the Perry Bridge Solar Farm, Fulham Solar Farm and the Gippsland Renewable Energy Park.
