Warrnambool Hydrogen Mobility Project
Warrnambool Hydrogen Mobility Project
The Warrnambool Hydrogen Mobility Project, being developed in South West Victoria, aims to be a leading project in transitioning a regional public transport bus fleet to zero emissions.
| Main proponents:
Warrnambool Bus Lines |
Main end-use classification:
Hydrogen in mobility application |
Status:
Under development |
Estimated cost:
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| Other involvement:
Air Liquide Australia, Deakin University Hycel
|
Production details:
Under evaluation |
Location:
Victoria, Australia |
Announced funding:
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Project description
Warrnambool Bus Lines is seeking to transition its urban route fleet of 12 buses servicing the Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Allansford area in South West Victoria, to hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. The project proponent notes this is not a pilot or demonstration project as it includes the transition to an end-state business model for an entire operational fleet for the lifetime of the vehicles and State government service agreement. The project intends to include the complete hydrogen value chain activities of production, storage, refuelling, depot and maintenance.
The proposed hydrogen source is to be renewables-based and studies are underway examining a range of renewable power supply options to the overall project. Studies include considering the use of onsite renewables.
Warrnambool Bus Lines would be responsible for the provision and maintenance of the hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) evaluation process is underway.
Air Liquide Australia’s role in the project includes hydrogen production, compression and the provision of storage and hydrogen refuelling equipment.
The project would be based at a dedicated site co-located with the Hycel Technology Hub at Deakin University’s Warrnambool campus, directly adjacent to the Princes Highway Road and rail freight corridor.
Deakin University would be responsible for the supply of land and utility services, as well as supporting the transition with workforce development and training requirements, social license framework and harnessing research and development opportunities. Implementation of this project leverages initiatives of the Hycel Technology Hub, Deakin University’s hydrogen fuel cell research and training facility, currently under construction and due to open in late 2023.
Preliminary design and engineering studies are being completed and commercial activities are underway to progress the project.
Reviewed: February 2024