Posted on 02 Feb 2023
Australia has signed an MOU with the Netherlands to support the development of a green hydrogen supply chain from Australia to Europe, Kallanish reports.
The agreement announced on Wednesday sets the ground for an export corridor from Australia to the Port of Rotterdam, complementing work already started with state governments in Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia. The goal is to make Rotterdam an international hub for hydrogen imports, including for transport to other countries in Northwest Europe.
Ultimately, it also highlights Australia’s efforts to boost its exports to the EU. Australia’s climate and energy minister Chris Bowen says his country can be “a renewable energy export superpower” and that “Europe is energy hungry.”
“With considerable renewable energy resources, Australia is in a strong position to export renewable energy, develop clean energy supply chains, and attract foreign investment,” adds Bowen. “Australia and the Netherlands have strong trade and investment ties, and we look forward to strengthening those by concluding negotiations on an ambitious and comprehensive trade agreement with the European Union.”
The MOU signed with Dutch authorities covers hydrogen trade policy, standards, and certification schemes; port infrastructure and supply chain development; innovative hydrogen technologies, including shipping, equipment and services; and government policies about safety, social licence and regulations for hydrogen.
The Netherlands is set to invest €2-3 billion ($2.17-3.26 billion) in green hydrogen projects, part of which has been earmarked to make the Port of Rotterdam a global hydrogen terminal. In its quest to build green hydrogen corridors, the port has deals with countries including Portugal and Chile.
Australia hydrogen ties are also close to Germany, with the countries currently funding R&D and demonstration projects to nurture the creation of a supply chain.
Source:Kallanish
