Hiringa Energy (Hiringa), a green hydrogen company, has partnered with investors and partners to launch Australasia’s first zero-emission green hydrogen refuelling network.
The Hiringa Refuelling New Zealand (HRNZ) network is a significant step towards decarbonising the sector and supporting New Zealand’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The launch of the HRNZ network marks a groundbreaking achievement, showcasing how strategically placed refuelling stations can unlock freight routes and provide a blueprint for similar projects in Australia.
The network will enable heavy transport to transition to zero-emission alternatives, with hydrogen-powered trucks now able to go into commercial operation.
Hiringa CEO Andrew Clennett highlighted the importance of the initiative in addressing the emissions challenges posed by heavy transport.
“As a first-of-its-kind across Australasia, the initiative addresses this major challenge by providing operators with the infrastructure they need to switch to zero-emission transport in an efficient, scalable, and commercially viable manner,” said Clennett.
Hiringa is already established in Australia through its joint venture, the Good Earth Green Hydrogen and Ammonia (GEGHA) project, with Sundown Pastoral Co.
The GEGHA project aims to establish a sustainable agricultural system using integrated solar energy to hydrogen and ammonia operation.
Hiringa Executive Director Cathy Clennett emphasised the benefits of low-carbon hydrogen within hard-to-abate industries in Australia.
“Application of low-carbon hydrogen within hard-to-abate industries will bring about a greater balance of economic, environmental, and social benefits to all Australians,” said Clennett.
TR Group Ltd Group General Manager Brendan King highlighted the role of fuel cell truck technology in enabling the initiative.
“The technology unlocks a clean alternative for hard-to-abate sectors that are difficult to electrify, where hydrogen meets the intense demands of handling long distances and heavy loads,” said King.
NZ Post CEO David Walsh said: “With rapid refuelling now available, this will allow us to operate the hydrogen truck seven days a week, 24 hours a day, with zero emissions. We’re thrilled to see this national network come together.”
The HRNZ network is not only a milestone for New Zealand but also sets the stage for providing hydrogen to seed multiple other applications — including marine, construction, materials handling, stationary power, and aviation.
