The Future Energy Exports Cooperative Research Centre (FEnEx CRC) has secured a lease with DevelopmentWA to begin construction of the Kwinana Energy Transformation Hub (KETH).
The agreement unlocks a prime 0.5-hectare portion of a three-hectare site within the Kwinana Strategic Industrial Area, marking the start of a multi-stage project aimed at decarbonising Australia’s heavy industry.
The KETH project is designed as a first-of-its-kind, open-access testbed for the energy sector.
By providing a “live” industrial environment, it allows researchers and companies to accelerate the commercialisation of emerging energy solutions while significantly de-risking new decarbonisation technologies.
Stage one of the development centres on a state-of-the-art R&D building designed by Ferguson Architects. Scheduled for completion in October 2026, this facility will serve as a permanent pillar of national infrastructure for clean energy innovation.
Situated in the heart of the Kwinana Industrial Area, the facility provides direct access to vital inputs, including hydrogen, carbon dioxide, natural gas and other key inputs.
This proximity allows for real-world demonstration of technologies alongside existing industrial operations.
Furthermore, FEnEx CRC has committed to sourcing 100 per cent of the workforce and materials for Stage 1 from Western Australian entities, ensuring the project delivers immediate economic value to the local community.
“This milestone is about more than just securing land,” said Professor Eric May, CEO of FEnEx CRC.
“It’s about delivering national infrastructure that helps industry reduce emissions and boosts Australia’s reputation as a global clean energy innovator.”
DevelopmentWA CEO Dean Mudford echoed this sentiment, noting that the lease unlocks strategically located land to support the state’s energy transition.
“KETH reflects our commitment to activating land in ways that deliver lasting economic value and position WA at the forefront of decarbonisation,” Mudford said.
Beyond research, the hub will play a vital role in workforce development, offering specialised training and skills programs to prepare Western Australians for the rapidly evolving clean energy job market.