Allens has advised hydrogen energy storage solutions provider LAVO in relation to protecting its world-first technology, LAVO Hydrogen Energy Storage System (HESS), with a comprehensive IP strategy to position and protect LAVO as a market leader.

The LAVO HESS – which took three wins at Australia’s Good Design Awards and was showcased at the COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow – is now being commercialised in a world-first first hydrogen energy storage system for everyday use. It integrates with rooftop solar to capture and store renewable energy as hydrogen to be converted to electricity on demand.

Developed by leading researchers at UNSW and backed by Providence Asset Group, LAVO estimates the addressable market for its technology as $2 billion in Australia and $40 billion globally. It hopes to create 1,400 Australian jobs by 2025.

‘This technology has the potential to completely transform our energy market and is set to have a material impact on the world’s carbon emissions,’ said lead Partner Linda Govenlock.

‘It’s incredibly exciting to work alongside the LAVO team to bring this game-changing technology to market.’

This work builds on Allens’ market-leading experience in hydrogen technology, including recent work with the Queensland Department of State Development, Infrastructure Local Government and Planning and ARENA.

‘We’re proud to be working with clients and our global alliance partner, Linklaters on a range of matters relating to potential and current hydrogen projects in Australia – from regulatory issues, corporate structuring, joint venture arrangements and funding, through to technology commercialisation, land transactions, environment and planning issues and site developments .This is a key focus for the firm, with hydrogen-related matters making up an increasing proportion of our energy portfolio,’ said Jacqui Rowell.