The $593 million-dollar power plant has been labeled a “significant asset for our state”, that will generate more than 11,000 jobs by revitalizing renewable energy and hydrogen export industries.
Known as ‘the steel city’, Labor nominated Whyalla as a prime location for its hydrogen power station site due to its proximity to other key infrastructure and its ability for a diverse skills base.
South Australia already has a reputable position as a renewable energy leader within Australia, with Peter Malinauskas claiming that it is “our next big leap forward”.
Gemma Tognini, the Communications Executive Director, states that Labor choosing Whyalla is “deeply symbolic”.
Labor’s win has paved the way for a new expert panel responsible for the project, with newly-appointed staffer Sam Crafter as the chief executive of the Office of Hydrogen Power South Australia.
Reporting directly to Energy and Mining Minister, Tom Koutsantonis, the state government has claimed that Crafter’s “unique skill set”, including “his significant experience at senior levels in the energy sector within government and the private sector”, is a proactive decision which will effectively implement appropriate energy reforms, as the Labor government flips from health to economic policy.
The plan is specifically looking at incorporating the development of a 200-megawatt to supply cheaper electricity to business and factories, an electrolyser to produce hydrogen from renewable energy, as well as a 3600-tonne hydrogen storage facility.
The government-owned and operated plant will drive countless new jobs and industry to the state, with Whyalla Mayor Clare McLaughlin claiming that as the epicenter of global green hydrogen development, this station will be a big aid in achieving Australia’s net-zero emissions by 2050.