The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has shortlisted seven projects in Round 2 of the Hydrogen Headstart Program, marking a major step forward in scaling Australia’s renewable hydrogen industry.
The projects selected to progress to the next stage in the application process are some of the most advanced large-scale renewable hydrogen proposals in the country, spanning multiple states and a range of end uses, including ammonia and alternative fuels.
Related article: Scientists use sunlight and gallium to make green hydrogen
The Australian Government has revised the amount of funding allocated to the program in the 2026 Federal Budget to $1 billion, and ARENA will now invite shortlisted projects to submit full applications. The full application phase includes a rigorous assessment process and detailed due diligence. Applicants must satisfy program criteria, with only those that meet a high merit threshold being considered for funding.
“Renewable hydrogen presents Australia with a significant economic and decarbonisation opportunity. Its potential to develop low-emission fuels for aviation and shipping, as well as key inputs for fertiliser could also help improve the nation’s energy resilience in the longer term,” ARENA CEO Darren Miller said.
“Renewable hydrogen is a complex, capital-intensive industry and progress takes time, but it is a critical enabler of industrial decarbonisation, particularly for hard-to-abate sectors. What we’re seeing are expressions of interest that are considered and well aligned to future market demand.”
The shortlisted applicants are:
- Bell Bay Powerfuels
- South East Queensland Power-to-X Project
- Portland Renewable Fuels Project
- HIF Tasmania e-Fuel Facility
- Murchison Green Hydrogen Project Stage 1B
- Perdaman Helios (Karratha): Decarbonising Fertilisers
- Gladstone Green Hydrogen Project.
The Hydrogen Headstart Program aims to catalyse Australia’s hydrogen industry to take advantage of the country’s opportunity to be a global hydrogen leader.
Related article: Water-splitting catalyst creates hydrogen at low temps
Under the program, projects seeking to produce renewable hydrogen, or derivatives, can apply for a production credit delivered over 10 years to bridge the commercial gap between the cost of producing renewable hydrogen and market prices.
