Tasmania could become a global leader in green hydrogen production and export by 2030, according to a new feasibility study.

The study, conducted by the Rockliff Liberal Government and the Dutch Port of Rotterdam, has confirmed that Tasmania's conditions for green hydrogen production, domestic use, and export are world-class.

The Port of Rotterdam, Europe's largest energy importer, has plans to establish itself as a major green hydrogen import hub for northwest Europe. 

In December 2021, the Tasmanian Government and the Port of Rotterdam Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the feasibility of exporting green hydrogen from Tasmania to Rotterdam.

The new study not only affirms the potential of Tasmania as a green hydrogen powerhouse but also highlights that the shipping distance from Bell Bay, Tasmania, to Rotterdam is not a hindrance to exporting hydrogen. 

This finding opens up opportunities for Tasmania to compete on the future Rotterdam HyXchange training platform.

Importantly, the study details the need for Tasmania to prioritise local utilisation of green hydrogen to benefit its people and the environment. 

To achieve this, the Tasmanian Government says it is focusing on reducing barriers and uncertainties for the hydrogen industry. This includes creating domestic market demand, pursuing export goals, and working on regulatory reform and guarantee of origin certification.

The release of the study serves to showcase Tasmania's capabilities to an international audience and potentially instil confidence in the renewable hydrogen industry regarding the feasibility of exporting green hydrogen or its derivatives to Europe.

While Tasmania is making significant strides, it is not alone in its efforts. Western Australia has also committed $70 million for renewable energy projects, primarily focusing on hydrogen-related initiatives.

The study's recommendations include the establishment of trade lanes between Tasmania and Rotterdam, leveraging the expertise of Europe's largest port and energy importer. 

It says that the European Union's target of importing 10 million tonnes per annum of green hydrogen by 2030 aligns with Tasmania's vision for green hydrogen export.

More details are accessible here.