The Future Energy Exports Cooperative Research Centre (FEnEx CRC) has secured key equipment and commenced front-end engineering design (FEED) for Stage 2 of the Kwinana Energy Transformation Hub (KETH), progressing onsite hydrogen production and testing in Western Australia.

FEnEx CRC has contracted Pacific Energy to supply two NEL Series 4 C30 electrolyzers and undertake FEED for the Hydrogen Process Plant. The Stage 2 facility will produce hydrogen on site and provide a practical industrial setting for technology trials.

Once operational, the Stage 2 facility will:

• Produce 130 kg per day of gaseous hydrogen for research, testing and potential offtake
• Produce 100 kg per day of liquid hydrogen for pilot-scale testing and demonstration
• Enable real-world conditions for hydrogen technologies to be safely tested before large-scale deployment
• Deliver practical training capability to support workforce development in hydrogen operations.

FEnEx CRC CEO Professor Eric May said the contracts marked a significant step in delivering KETH’s full capability.

“With construction of the Stage 1 R&D building well underway, securing the electrolyzers and starting FEED work for Stage 2 keeps us on track to deliver a complete hydrogen production, testing and validation platform,” Professor May said.

“This is about creating a real industrial environment where hydrogen technologies can be safely tested and proven before commercial deployment, reducing risk for industry, accelerating development and strengthening Australia’s clean energy capability.”

He said the project would support WA’s decarbonization and skills development, with the grant from the WA Government’s Investment Attraction Fund instrumental in progressing the next phase.

Pacific Energy CEO, Mike Hall, echoed the sentiment, saying the partnership is laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more resilient energy future for Western Australia.

“This project represents a significant step forward in Western Australia’s hydrogen capability, and we’re proud to be partnering with FEnEx CRC to help bring it to life,” Hall said.

“By drawing on Pacific Energy’s proven experience in engineering and deploying hydrogen production, compression and storage systems, we’re helping establish a facility that will accelerate technology development and build the skilled workforce our state will need in the years ahead.”

“While our core focus remains providing reliable, fit‑for‑purpose energy solutions for our customers, partnering on KETH ensures we help grow the broader clean energy ecosystem that will support WA’s industrial future.”

The Hydrogen Process Plant will be located immediately south of the Stage 1 R&D building currently under construction in the Kwinana Strategic Industrial Area. Construction of the hydrogen process plant is expected to commence in late 2026, following completion of FEED and relevant approvals.

The KETH Stage 2 project aligns with the WA Government’s Diversify WA strategy and the Australian Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda. The Australian Government supports the FEnEx CRC through the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources’ CRC Program.