A National Hydrogen Strategy that will open up export markets in Asia is a step closer with the release of consultation papers today.

The nine issues papers have been developed by the COAG Energy Council Hydrogen Strategy Working Group after national and international consultation.

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan said the development of a world-leading hydrogen industry may be a lucrative economic opportunity for Australia, but we need to prepare the groundwork thoroughly.

“The development of our hydrogen resources will create new Australian jobs and an export industry valued in the billions,” Minister Canavan said.

“Key export markets such as Japan and Korea are shifting their energy consumption towards hydrogen and we need to be ready to grasp that opportunity.”

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said that hydrogen technology will lower the cost of reducing emissions, so that we can meet Australia’s climate commitments without sending industries and jobs offshore.

“The Government has already invested more than $100 million into hydrogen projects, partnering with industry to develop tangible solutions that are important for bringing down energy prices while keeping the lights on for Australian households and small businesses.

“Hydrogen is uniquely placed to provide reliable power through storage and transport of energy.

“Hydrogen exports from Australia to Asia will also play an important role in helping other countries reduce their emissions, just as the LNG sector is doing today, all while keeping our economy strong.”

Each of the nine issues papers poses questions, encouraging responses from industry and the wider community.

The issues papers are:

1. Hydrogen at scale

2. Attracting hydrogen investment

3. Developing a hydrogen export industry

4. Guarantees of origin

5. Understanding community concerns for safety and the environment

6. Hydrogen in the gas network

7. Hydrogen to support electricity systems

8. Hydrogen for transport

9. Hydrogen for industrial users

In December 2018, the COAG Energy Council, led by the Australian Government, commissioned the Chief Scientist to develop a comprehensive and ambitious national strategy for the development of an Australian hydrogen industry, to be delivered by the end of 2019.