Australia stands at the threshold of an energy revolution, aiming to harness its natural resource wealth to become a leading green hydrogen producer. Central to this vision is Hysata, an Australian green energy company based in Port Kembla. Under the leadership of Paul Barrett, Hysata has introduced a novel technology in electrolysis. Traditional electrolysis, which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity, is often plagued by inefficiencies due to bubbles clinging to electrodes. Hysata’s innovation employs a thin, sponge-like material to mitigate this issue, reducing energy consumption by 20% compared to conventional methods. Barrett highlights the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of their solution, likening it to a kitchen sponge but much thinner.
Hydrogen, when used as a fuel or in industrial processes, does not produce carbon dioxide, making it a crucial component in efforts to reduce emissions, particularly in energy-intensive industries like steelmaking and chemical production. The hydrogen production process varies in its environmental impact, with green hydrogen produced using renewable energy, while grey, blue, and black hydrogen involve different degrees of fossil fuel usage and CO2 management.
Dr. Liam Wagner from Curtin University points out that scaling up green hydrogen production to meet increasing demand is a major challenge. “Ensuring you have the production of green hydrogen close enough to the demand point and being able to regulate the supply of that is probably the biggest challenge,” he explains. The efficiency of production processes and the energy required are critical concerns in this regard.
Australia’s resource-rich landscape has historically played a significant role in global markets. Its coal has fueled Japan, and its iron ore has supported China’s growth. Many hope that hydrogen will follow as a valuable export commodity. Dr. Wagner envisions hydrogen being exported in forms such as liquid or ammonia, addressing energy needs in countries with limited production capabilities.
Hysata’s breakthrough technology could be a game-changer in this context. Developed initially by researchers at the University of Wollongong, the firm’s electrolyzer technology enhances performance and reduces energy losses by eliminating bubbles that interfere with the process. The recent US$111 million investment in Hysata reflects growing confidence in hydrogen’s potential.
In addition to electrolytic hydrogen, research into naturally occurring hydrogen is progressing. Dr. Ema Frery from CSIRO is investigating "geogenic" or "white" hydrogen, which is produced through geological processes. Her research focuses on how this type of hydrogen can be extracted and utilized economically, drawing parallels with successful methods used in Mali.
Despite these advancements, some experts remain skeptical. Amandine Denis-Ryan of the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis questions the economic viability of exporting hydrogen due to high shipping costs and logistical challenges. She advocates for prioritizing local hydrogen use over expensive export initiatives.
