BlueScope and Shell sign hydrogen projects in the Illawarra
Both companies will leverage each other’s strengths to explore the development of integrated hydrogen supply chains.
BlueScope today (7th December) announced to have signed an MoU with Shell Energy Operations Pty Ltd to work together to explore and develop renewable hydrogen projects at BlueScope’s Port Kembla Steelworks, Illawarra, New South Wales, Australia.
Under the MoU, the parties will explore designing, building and operating a pilot-scale 10 MW renewable hydrogen electrolyser to test the use of green hydrogen in the blast furnace at BlueScope’s Port Kembla Steelworks. The aim is to explore using hydrogen for low emissions steelmaking.
Furthermore, both parties also agreed to collaborate with other organisations to develop a hydrogen hub in Illawarra. This project will explore options for hydrogen supply and offtake, renewable energy supply and hydrogen and electricity infrastructure. The project will also examine the logistics infrastructure required for a commercially viable hydrogen supply chain in the Illawarra.
The MoU collaboration is part of BlueScope’s previously announced climate investment program of up to $150 million over the next five years.
Mark Vassella, CEO of BlueScope, said, “Any future potential hydrogen hub in the Illawarra will need broad support from governments, regulators, customers and suppliers.”
Tony Nunan, Shell Australia Chairman, commented, “Hydrogen has the potential to play a key role in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors, many of which are central to Australia’s economic and social development.”
