Angus Taylor to unveil $218m spend for SA renewables creating 6000 jobs

Nearly 6000 jobs will be created as the Coalition splashes $218m for renewables in regional SA, including $70m for a high-profile hydrogen hub.

South Australia’s status as a clean energy powerhouse will be cemented as the Coalition invests $218m in renewable projects across the state’s Iron Triangle, including the planned hydrogen hub at Port Bonython.

Scott Morrison on Friday will unveil funding for a slew of new hi-tech projects that is expected to create 5940 direct jobs in Whyalla, Port Augusta, Port Pirie and surrounding areas.

Among the investments, locked in before the May 2022 election was called, is a $70m grant for the planned hydrogen hub at Port Bonython near Whyalla and $110m for a Port Augusta solar station.

“The upper Eyre Peninsula and Iron Triangle region at the top of Spencer Gulf in SA has long been an industrial powerhouse, and now they are primed to seize more opportunities from Australia’s clean hydrogen industry,” the Prime Minister told The Advertiser.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said SA’s Iron Triangle has long been an industrial powerhouse. Picture: Jason Edwards

On Friday, Energy Minister Angus Taylor will visit Port Bonython to spruik the investments alongside Grey MP Rowan Ramsey, who is tasked with fending off popular independent Liz Habermann.

“The Upper Spencer Gulf has outstanding potential to become a first-class clean energy producer,” Mr Ramsey said, adding the community were “eagerly awaiting” the funding announcement.

The Port Bonython precinct is led by eight companies, including Santos and billionaire Andrew Forrest’s Fortescue Future Industries, and is expected to generate 45,000 tonnes of hydrogen per year through seven projects to be established by 2026. That figure would then grow to 1.5m tonnes per year by 2030.

The precinct will focus mainly on export opportunities. The federal government’s money will go towards upgrading the Port Bonython jetty, construction of hydrogen storage systems and other key infrastructure.

It’s understood the Labor state government will ensure the safe passage of the hub, which won’t stop it from pursuing its flagship election commitment of building a new hydrogen-fired power station, likely at a nearby location.

Santos' oil and gas site at Port Bonython, SA. Picture Supplied by Santos

“Port Bonython is a perfect location for a hydrogen hub in South Australia, with the ability to produce hydrogen from both gas with carbon capture in Moomba, as well as from its vast renewable resources,” Mr Taylor said.

The Energy Minister will also reveal the federal government is negotiating a concessional loan of up to $110m to boost the development of Vast Solar’s 20 megawatt solar station in Port Augusta.

Vast Solar chief executive Craig Wood said the funding was “great news for SA and for the country’s transition to net zero”.

The company’s project will use “concentrated solar thermal technology” to harness and store the sun’s power for use “around the clock”.

Santos will also receive $15m towards its $85m carbon capture project in Moomba, and $3m to help it produce 146,000 tonnes of hydrogen every year, also at Moomba.

Hallett Construction Materials received a $20m grant to establish a new green cement facility in Port Augusta, with operations also in Whyalla and Port Adelaide.

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