Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct Achieves Major Milestone

The Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct (CEP) has reached a significant development milestone, securing agreements for Front End Engineering Designs (FEED) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS). These agreements cover key infrastructure components such as electrical systems, water services, general infrastructure, storage facilities, berth infrastructure, and pipelines. The initiative is part of a $100 million grant from the Commonwealth Government aimed at preparing the CEP for hydrogen production and export.

A Step Forward for the Hunter Region

Craig Carmody, CEO of the Port of Newcastle, emphasized that this progress is pivotal for the region, positioning the Hunter as a key player in the clean energy transition. The Clean Energy Precinct is central to the port’s diversification strategy, aiming to contribute significantly to the local economy and employment. Once fully operational, the CEP is projected to generate $4.2 billion in economic value and create approximately 5,800 jobs in the Hunter Region by 2040. The project aligns with the New South Wales Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, which promotes decarbonization, renewable energy generation, and storage.

Partnerships and Tenderers Driving Progress

Key industry players have been selected to conduct the FEED and EIS studies. Lumea will handle electrical infrastructure, CoNEXA will oversee water services, and GHD will focus on general infrastructure. These studies will inform the site’s future layout and design, ensuring that the precinct is environmentally compliant and ready for clean energy production. The CEP will facilitate the production, storage, distribution, and export of green hydrogen and green ammonia, positioning Newcastle as a leader in clean energy exports.

Government and Industry Support

The development of the CEP has garnered strong support from both state and federal governments. Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, highlighted the project’s potential to safeguard and create jobs while establishing Newcastle as a hub for hydrogen exports. Similarly, NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, noted the precinct’s role in ensuring the region remains an energy powerhouse, supporting thousands of local jobs and boosting the regional economy.

State Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp, also expressed his enthusiasm, having supported the port’s shift away from coal for the past decade. He noted that Newcastle’s infrastructure and skilled workforce make it the ideal location for this clean energy precinct in New South Wales.

Industry Leaders Applaud the Project

The project’s partners have expressed excitement about their roles in this transformative initiative. Lumea’s Executive General Manager, Craig Stallan, commended the Port of Newcastle for its forward-thinking approach to electrification, setting an example for other industrial customers across Australia. CoNEXA CEO, Kurt Dahl, emphasized the importance of sustainable water services, aligning with the CEP’s vision for a greener future. GHD’s Dean McIntyre echoed this sentiment, stressing the significance of local expertise in supporting Australia’s clean energy transition and the vital role the Hunter region plays in the nation’s decarbonization efforts.

In the coming months, these partnerships will engage with the local community and industry proponents to further develop the CEP, advancing Newcastle’s leadership in clean energy production and export.