At this month’s Council Meeting, Latrobe City Council endorsed its support of a delegation comprising Mayor, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan and Chief Executive Officer, Steve Piasente to attend meetings in Japan with J-Power to advocate for the Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain (HESC) project.
This delegation emphasises Council’s commitment to fostering international partnerships, advocacy for new energy and driving the growth of the hydrogen industry within our region, as outlined in Council’s Our Transition plan.
Council continues to actively position the region at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions. The hydrogen sector has been identified as an energy for the future and holds immense potential for Latrobe City, given our wealth of resources and expertise in energy production.
The Gippsland region presents a unique opportunity to reduce global CO2 emissions through the production of large amounts of clean hydrogen. This positions Latrobe City to become a major player in the hydrogen economy.
The net zero emission HESC project presents a major opportunity to manufacture hydrogen in the region and provides a pathway for Latrobe City to be a future hydrogen manufacturing hub. Importantly this industry would support the transition of our economy and support the creation of jobs in Latrobe City and the region.
Council has been invited by J-Power, the lead Japanese business for the HESC consortium, to visit their best practice Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle with Carbon Capture and Hydrogen fuel cell in Japan. The project, proposed to be located in Latrobe City, would be based on this existing project.
By exploring collaborations with Japanese counterparts, we aim to accelerate the development of a sustainable hydrogen economy in our community. The delegation would provide the opportunity for Council representatives to further understand and see firsthand what this could mean for Latrobe once delivered including, direct and indirect jobs during and post construction, along with continuing discussions on how Council can support the consortium and project.
As our economy transitions from the major pillars that have underpinned it, energy and timber manufacturing products, the opportunity to advocate for job creation is a key focus of Council. The total estimated cost of the trip is $12,000, a value for money investment when compared to the $3.2 billion investment from the Japanese Government for the project, Council’s $150 million operating budget and the prospect of securing a new industry and long-term jobs for our community
During the visit, the Mayor of Latrobe City and Chief Executive Officer will engage in high-level discussions and share insights on Latrobe City's hydrogen ambitions. We believe that this initiative will not only enhance our region's global profile but also pave the way for mutually beneficial collaborations.
Council is confident that this delegation will continue to build relationships with the Japanese Consortium leading the HESC project and will yield substantial benefits for our community, contributing to job creation, economic growth and a more sustainable future.