Western Green Energy Hub Pty Ltd (WGEH) has entered into a fresh collaboration agreement aimed at advancing its ambitious project in south-east Western Australia. The initial stage is anticipated to generate up to 6GW of hybrid wind and solar energy alongside producing 330,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually.
This latest agreement with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) follows an earlier memorandum of understanding signed in July 2023, signalling a significant move towards finalising a joint development agreement.
Detailed Plans for Project Development
The collaboration agreement outlines a comprehensive strategy to undertake a feasibility study for the first stage of the project. This includes several key areas:
- Advancing project engineering and cost modelling
- Engaging collaboratively with key authorities and potential project support sources
- Integrating various firms that may contribute to the project execution, including specialists in design, technology, and construction, along with service providers and potential buyers
WGEH emphasised that the feasibility study resulting from this collaboration will be pivotal in guiding the subsequent development phases of the project.
Significance for Australia’s Green Hydrogen Future
WGEH’s CEO, Ray Macdonald, highlighted that the first stage of the project could play a significant role in establishing Australia as a key player in the burgeoning green hydrogen market globally. “Advancing a feasibility study with KEPCO, a renowned leader in global infrastructure projects, along with its extensive national and international networks, is crucial for realising this potential,” Mr Macdonald stated.
He further pointed out that the collaboration agreement creates several collaborative opportunities, or ‘learning spaces’, which will allow both KEPCO and WGEH to utilize their personnel, insights, and industry relationships – including connections with First Nations and government entities – to benefit the project.
Looking Forward
Chanhyuk Chun, KEPCO’s Vice President and Head of Global Business Department, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are eager to collaborate with WGEH on the feasibility study and associated opportunities. This agreement enables us to benefit from the expertise and experience of the WGEH team, helping us prepare better for opportunities in Western Australia and the broader Australian market.”
WGEH also noted that their project prospects have been enhanced by the Federal Government’s $2 per kg Renewable Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive and the strategic focus on renewable hydrogen and green fuels as part of the $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia initiative.
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