Federal Minister for Environment Tanya Plibersek has agreed to assess the proposed 70GW Western Green Energy Hub (WGEH) under the EPBC Act.
The massive hybrid renewables project comprises 35 wind and solar nodes of 2-3GW each with its own 1.5GW hydrogen electrolyser and/or data centre.
Related article: Western Green Energy Hub seeks upgrade to massive 70GW
WGEH’s application will be assessed via an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which is consistent with the Public Environmental Review level prescribed by the Western Australian EPA.
WGEH CEO Dr Ray Macdonald said, “We are fully supportive of the Minister’s decision and the further prescriptive assessment work that is now to be undertaken.
“Our project is complex and extensive, and it is important that we have a complete understanding of the species, ecosystems and other values that are protected or particularly sensitive.
“Advanced studies will guide our primary avoidance strategy, meaning significant areas can be totally avoided and buffer zones introduced to ensure we have no physical overlay nor impact”.
Federal Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic recently granted the WGEH project Major Project Status due to its alignment with the government’s Future Made in Australia plan and a contribution towards the National Hydrogen Strategy.
Related article: Tasmania’s first green hydrogen facility launches in Hobart
Dr Macdonald said, “WGEH will generate clean energy without negative environmental effects. The WGEH project aligns with both the State and Commonwealth hydrogen strategies and our prospects have been bolstered by the Australian Government’s announcement of the $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia initiative, including a $2 per kg renewable Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive and a clear focus on the renewable hydrogen and e-fuels sectors.”
Stage 1 FID and financial close is scheduled for 2029.
