Whyalla is a step closer to becoming World’s largest hydrogen hub
Work is set to commence in early 2026, on Whyalla’s World-first Hydrogen Power Plant, which will see the installation of 100 per cent hydrogen-operated fast-start-up turbines.
The South Australian Government has announced that ATCO Australia, BOC and EPIC Energy are its preferred partners to deliver the Hydrogen Jobs Plan – a bold $593 million State Government investment, designed to re-industrialise the Upper Spencer Gulf region using clean energy and solidify South Australia’s position as a global hydrogen powerhouse.
This follows six months of detailed evaluation of tender submissions from around the world, with the project expected to generate up to 1,000 jobs during construction and create up to 95 permanent, long-term, local positions, as well as helping leverage thousands more new jobs in complementary industries.
Renewable energy to boost Whyalla’s economy
Mayor Phill Stone said this was a momentous milestone for Whyalla, coinciding with geotechnical surveying due to commence on the project site to the north of the city.
“It’s fantastic to have these preferred partners announced and heading to Whyalla soon to commence detailed planning, while looking at the project site and what our city offers,” Mayor Stone said.
“This will be a fantastic opportunity for locals and contractors – particularly during the construction phase and through the growth expected in associated industries – as well as attracting key workers and their families from across the globe.”
Mayor Stone said the announcement also represents progress in the city’s economic plans to reduce its carbon footprint and diversify its local economy.
“We also anticipate other businesses will relocate their operations to Whyalla to take advantage of a secure, reliable source of green hydrogen.”
Mayor Stone said having State and Federal Governments committed to renewable energy was tremendous news for our entire nation and the global climate, with this announcement coming less than a month after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to Whyalla to reconfirm his government’s commitment to green hydrogen production in the city.
“These announcements are welcome news for our residential and business community, as well as those considering investing or starting a new business in Whyalla, or relocating for new opportunities,” he said.
“Council will continue to work closely with the State and Federal governments, the private sector and investors on projects that provide contemporary, quality housing and a better standard of living, to attract people to live and work in the Whyalla region.”
Member for Giles, Eddie Hughes agreed that the investment will transform the future of the Upper Spencer Gulf, and secure long term productive job opportunities for Whyalla and beyond.
“But more than that, we can use this clean energy to produce green iron and steel, providing the world with the essential building blocks needed to decarbonise,” he said.
