The South Australian Government’s 200MW Whyalla hydrogen plant has been granted federal approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
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This follows the project securing development approval in July this year by both state and Commonwealth regulatory agencies.
These approval milestones signify a significant step forward for the project, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to sustainability and environmental protection while fostering renewable energy growth and job creation.
Office of Hydrogen Power SA CEO Sam Crafter said, “This approval is a testament to our commitment to balance renewable energy development with conservation. We’re proud to take a responsible approach that not only drives employment opportunities and innovation in Whyalla but also safeguards the unique biodiversity in the region.”
The Office of Hydrogen Power SA, ATCO Australia, and BOC will develop the project, which has received over $402 million in funding.
The Whyalla hydrogen power plant facility is separate to the Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub, which is located near Stony Point.
The 200MW renewable hydrogen power plant will be a new source of flexible power, providing additional grid stability for homes and businesses around the state by using excess renewable energy generated from large-scale wind and solar farms to provide a consistent output of supply.
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Construction of the new facility is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2024 and be completed early 2026.
