TasPorts and Countrywide Hydrogen in renewable partnership

TasPorts and Countrywide Hydrogen have signed a Heads of Agreement for a land lease at the Port of Bell Bay, enabling further investment and production in renewable energy.

The Agreement for the 1 ha parcel in the industrial precinct, paves the way for Countrywide to progress its 10MW green hydrogen production plant, with the hydrogen product intended for use in the domestic market, with a focus on road transport.

TasPorts Chief Executive Anthony Donald said Bell Bay is cementing itself as a renewable energy hub.

“Today’s confirmation a Heads of Agreement has been reached with Countrywide Hydrogen is another step forward in the development of a green hydrogen production plant and a further sign of confidence of strong industry interest in the precinct,” he said.

“TasPorts’ commitment to enabling clean energy is directly aligned to our sustainability program and ongoing commitment to see the Port of Bell Bay establish as a renewable superhub, helping to further reduce Tasmania’s carbon footprint and foster environmental stewardship.”

Countrywide Hydrogen Managing Director Geoffrey Drucker welcomed the Agreement.

“Countrywide is actively developing green hydrogen production facilities in Tasmania as part of our broader strategy to create a Hydrogen Highway across the State, with additional projects planned for Wesley Vale, Brighton, and Western Junction,” he said.

“The plant at Bell Bay will help provide clean green hydrogen to the local transport and industrial sectors, with the facility including a hydrogen refuelling station to support the adoption of zero-emission hydrogen-powered vehicles.

“Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone in partnership with Countrywide Hydrogen has lodged an application with the Federal Government’s Department of Infrastructure for funding support for the project under the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.”

The announcement aligns with Tasmania’s commitment to become a leader in green hydrogen.

The terms of the agreement will now be finalised with the formal agreement to be executed in the New Year, with Countrywide Hydrogen expecting construction to commence in 2025.