Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and Labor’s Shadow Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy and Member for Shortland, Pat Conroy MP hosted a Hydrogen Roundtable in Newcastle today.

Ms Claydon said the event brought together researchers, industry and port representatives to discuss the potential for Newcastle to play a leading role in the burgeoning global industry, especially in light of Federal Labor’s $1.1 billion National Hydrogen Plan.  

“If elected, Labor will invest $1.1 billion into development, research, demonstration and pre-commercial deployment of clean hydrogen technology.  I’d like to see Newcastle and the Hunter secure as much of that as possible,” Ms Claydon said.

“Hydrogen has the potential to be a game changer for our region and our environment and could be a key driver in the local transition we need to make to a low-carbon future.”

Mr Conroy said there are significant domestic opportunities for Australia to develop a globally competitive hydrogen sector.

“Hydrogen has enormous potential to help decarbonise our planet, employ tens of thousands of Australians and produce billions of dollars of export revenue,” Mr Conroy said.

“The market potential is massive. Globally, the hydrogen market is expected to reach $215 billion by 2022 and demand is forecast to grow exponentially from there.”

Ms Claydon said Newcastle and the Hunter was uniquely placed to capitalise on the opportunities that hydrogen offers.

“Our region already has a world-class network of energy expertise and capability and is perfectly placed to capitalise on the hydrogen boom,” Ms Claydon said.

“Add this to the fact that we have a deep water port and you have the key ingredients for a prosperous hydrogen hub.”

This election is a choice between Labor’s plan for increased investment in renewables and commitment to driving a low-carbon future, or bigger tax loopholes for the top end of town under the Liberals.

Only Labor has a commitment to the industries and jobs of the future, including our $1.14 billion National Hydrogen Plan, and our commitment to 50 per cent renewables by 2030.