The Port of Newcastle has taken a significant step forward in advancing its Clean Energy Precinct by signing a formal Advisory Agreement with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. This collaboration aims to leverage MHI’s expertise in the production, storage, and distribution of hydrogen and ammonia, which will provide essential insights for the CEP’s Front End Engineering Design studies currently in progress.

Craig Carmody, CEO of the Port of Newcastle, emphasised the value of this partnership, stating, “MHI is at the forefront of the research and development of next-generation clean energy production technologies, so being able to tap into the wealth of expertise MHI possesses is going to be incredibly valuable in informing the future site layout, enablement, and design of the Clean Energy Precinct.”

He further highlighted MHI’s Takasago Hydrogen Park, noting that it is the first facility in the world capable of validating the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to power. Carmody expressed confidence that the knowledge MHI brings regarding chemical plant projects, including hydrogen production, ammonia synthesis, and storage, will position the CEP, the Port, and the Hunter Region for success as a future global hydrogen hub.

Takehiko Kikuchi, Senior Fellow and chief regional officer for Asia Pacific & India at MHI, acknowledged the partnership, saying, “We appreciate the invitation from the Port of Newcastle to be an advisor for the Port’s common user facility development in the Clean Energy Precinct. It’s an honour for us to be able to contribute to the project, leveraging our technical expertise and experience in the hydrogen and ammonia value chain. We are looking forward to supporting the Port of Newcastle team.”

The Clean Energy Precinct is recognised as the most advanced port in Australia regarding clean energy production, being the only port currently at the FEED and Environmental Impact Statement studies stage. This phase involves assessments being conducted by Lumea (electrical), CoNEXA (water), and GHD (general infrastructure). The studies encompass various critical components such as electrical infrastructure, water services, general infrastructure, storage, berth infrastructure, and pipelines to the berth.

Current studies for the CEP are funded by a $100 million grant aimed at hydrogen readiness from the Commonwealth Government, which is administered by the NSW Government. Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, elaborated on the significance of the project, stating, “The Clean Energy Precinct is a major economic catalyst for our region, and this Advisory Agreement will ensure that Newcastle continues to lead in the production, storage, and export of clean energy products and technology. Newcastle has powered Australia for generations, and this project ensures that we will continue to do so for generations to come as we lead the transition to net zero.”

The dedicated 220-hectare Clean Energy Precinct is designed to facilitate clean energy production, storage, distribution, and export. Once fully developed, it is projected to contribute $4.2 billion to the economy and generate thousands of new jobs in the Hunter Region by 2040.

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