ENEOS, Japan’s largest oil company, is set to significantly increase its production of green hydrogen in Queensland.
From next year ENEOS will produce up to 20 kilograms of green hydrogen daily at its Bulwer Island site in Brisbane. The green hydrogen will be produced using ENEOS’ patented electrolysis technology, powered from renewable energy generated by a dedicated on-site 250-kilowatt solar system.
The hydrogen will be produced in the form of methylcyclohexane (MCH), allowing it to be stored and transported as a liquid before being refined back to hydrogen in Japan.
This is the first project supported by the Japanese Government’s $24 billion Green Innovation Fund, which will help the country achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
ENEOS, in partnership with Japanese engineering company Chiyoda Corporation and the Queensland University of Technology, began its Queensland-based green hydrogen technology demonstrations in 2018.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said Queensland is well-placed to lead the world in hydrogen development.
“With proactive policy from government, abundant renewable resources, and well-established infrastructure, our state is the ideal place to invest in hydrogen,” Mr de Brenni said.
“Hydrogen presents a wide range of opportunities across sectors, and by encouraging the development of new technologies and processes locally we’ll maximise the potential of hydrogen.”
Queensland’s Trade and Investment Commissioner for Japan Tak Adachi said the investment highlights the strong trading relationship between state and nation.
“The longstanding partnership of Queensland and Japan continues to be fruitful,” Mr Adachi said.
“When it comes to developing technologies for sustainable and carbon-neutral industries, Japanese companies are world-leading, and we’re pleased to be part of that progress in Queensland.”
Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said ENEOS’ increase in local green hydrogen production will create 30 new specialist jobs for Queensland.
ENEOS has also started construction on a 204-megawatt solar project at Edenvale in the Western Downs, supporting 400 regional jobs.
“We look forward to continue working with ENEOS and other global companies looking to base their hydrogen operations in Queensland.”
