Fortescue Metals, under the leadership of Andrew Forrest, launched its 2GW hydrogen electrolyser plant in Gladstone, Queensland, Australia. The Fortescue Gladstone plant is poised to revolutionize the country’s manufacturing industry with cutting-edge, automated technology.
The facility is a collaboration between Fortescue’s Australian and American teams. It will produce Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser stacks and plans to establish a 50 MW green hydrogen production site.
Fortescue’s Green Vision
The project aligns with Fortescue’s ambition to lead in green hydrogen production. Despite electrolyser manufacturing challenges and cost uncertainties, Forrest targets an annual production of 15 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. He acknowledged the support from state and federal governments, highlighting the project’s role in generating thousands of new green energy jobs.
Mark Hutchinson, CEO of Fortescue Energy, stated that the facility positions Fortescue and Gladstone as major contributors to the global green hydrogen market. Given green hydrogen’s importance in global decarbonization, the demand for electrolysers is expected to increase significantly. ”
“The process of splitting hydrogen and oxygen isn’t new – but the innovative ways the world is looking to use green hydrogen to decarbonise are, and that means demand for green hydrogen and for the electrolysers to produce it is growing rapidly,” Hutchinson said in a statement.
Challenges and Commitments
Expansion of green hydrogen production at Fortescue has seen its share of hurdles, including delays in moving forward with a 550 MW electrolyser facility at Gibson Island. This pause also affects a 750 MW solar plant project by Genex Power, which counted on Fortescue as a key customer.
The Queensland government has played a supportive role by providing necessary infrastructure and land, with Premier Steven Miles highlighting the state’s lead in renewable energy investment translating into manufacturing jobs. The Australian federal government has also backed the project with AU$44m from the Modern Manufacturing Initiative, showcasing the national commitment to green energy.
Industry Minister Ed Husic remarked on the facility’s ability to demonstrate Australia’s capacity to balance emission reduction with job creation. The Gladstone factory is set to propel innovation in electrolyser technology, crucial for the world’s shift towards green energy.
Creating over 100 jobs during its construction phase, the facility is anticipated to support more than 300 direct and indirect jobs going forward. This marks a significant advancement in Australia’s green manufacturing sector and its dedication to sustainable energy solutions.
With the inauguration of Fortescue’s Gladstone 2GW hydrogen plant in Australia, the foundation is laid not only for a greener future but also for a new era in green manufacturing and energy production.
