TasPorts and the H2U Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding to investigate the feasibility of developing a large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia production and export facility within the precinct of the Port of Bell Bay, in northern Tasmania.
The proposed facility would initially be capable of producing up to 500,000 tonnes of green ammonia per year, with potential for expansion, supporting the emerging hydrogen industry and advancing Tasmania’s renewable energy ambitions.
Under the MoU, TasPorts and the H2U Group will assess the technical, economic, environmental, and social feasibility of the project, including potential port infrastructure needs, energy and water supply, export logistics, and local labor opportunities.
TasPorts CEO, Anthony Donald, stated that the collaboration builds on TasPorts’ vision to position Bell Bay as one of Australia’s most sustainable bulk ports. “This collaboration represents another significant step in the transition towards low-emission energy solutions and will help accelerate the state’s contribution to Australia’s future energy security,” he stated.
“Our investigations will focus on assessing the implementation of a large-scale production facility from green hydrogen and derivative products, including green ammonia and associated refueling infrastructure, for export and domestic use. If successful, this project could generate lasting benefits for Tasmania by attracting new industries to the George Town region, strengthening local supply chains, and creating skilled employment opportunities during construction and operation,” added Donald.
Doctor Attilio Pigneri, founder and CEO of H2U Group, stated that Bell Bay is ideally positioned to support both Australia’s export ambitions and the global energy sector’s transition towards cleaner fuels. “Bell Bay is one of the few places in Australia that has a deep-water port, a diversified industrial complex, and access to renewable energy,” he declared.
“Building on our experience with similar developments in Gladstone and the Eyre Peninsula, we are pleased to work with TasPorts to support our vision for an integrated green energy export hub in Bell Bay,” stated Pigneri.
The Tasmanian and Australian governments have identified the Bell Bay industrial precinct as a key location for renewable energy development, and there are currently several proponents advancing projects focused on hydrogen and green manufacturing.
The study is expected to be completed towards the end of the financial year and, if successful, will form the basis for the preferred project design and advanced development activities, including initial engineering and design and development approvals.
