First look at SA’s $593m hydrogen energy project

New images of a $593m hydrogen production facility in Whyalla have been unveiled as the Premier eyes commerce operations in early 2026 with three new corporate partners. See the video.

The State Government has unveiled an inside look at the world’s biggest hydrogen production facility as it announced corporate partners for the project.

Premier Peter Malinauskas said the $593 million Whyalla project would generate over 700 jobs during the course of its development, with it set to open early 2026.

The world's biggest hydrogen production facility, power plant and storage planned for Whyalla. Picture: Supplied

“The hydrogen plant will take our abundant renewable energy, turn it into hydrogen and then when the price goes up, when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining, regenerate electricity for the benefit of South Australian consumers,” he said.

Partnering with companies ATCO Australia, BOC and EPIC Energy, the Premier said the government had been working behind the scenes for the last 18 months to fulfil the commitment to build the world’s largest hydrogen electrolyser and power plant in South Australia.

Premier said the project would generate over 700 jobs during the course of its production,. Picture: Supplied

“This project will be owned and operated by South Australians for the benefit of South Australians,” he said.

“This is a world-leading opportunity for South Australia that has the potential to rival Victoria’s gold rush, the coal boom in Queensland or Western Australia’s development of iron ore and gas.”

The Premier said corporate partnerships would help deliver the “bold and innovative” project by the beginning of 2026. Picture: Supplied

He said he was confident of the project’s delivery and that the partnership with three leading companies would help deliver the “bold and innovative” project by the beginning of 2026 as per Labor’s election commitments.

Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone said Sunday’s announcement was a welcome news for local community as well as for those considering to invest in or to start a business in Whyalla.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity for locals and contractors – particularly during the construction phase and through the growth expected in associated industries – as well as attracting key workers and their families from across the globe,” he said.

“We also anticipate other businesses will relocate their operations to Whyalla to take advantage of a secure, reliable source of green hydrogen.”

Mayor Stone said having state and federal governments committed to renewable energy was “tremendous”.

The Premier said the Whyalla hydrogen project would be owned and operated by South Australians for the benefit of South Australians. Picture: Supplied

“It’s fantastic to have these preferred partners announced and heading to Whyalla soon to commence detailed planning, while looking at the project site and what our city offers,” he said.

“Council will continue to work closely with the state and federal governments, the private sector and investors on projects that provide contemporary, quality housing and a better standard of living, to attract people to live and work in the Whyalla region.”

Member for Giles Eddie Hughes said the hydrogen project will transform the future of the Upper Spencer Gulf and secure long-term productive job opportunities for Whyalla.

“We have an opportunity to grow our reputation as a global renewable energy powerhouse,” he said.

Originally published as First look at SA’s $593m hydrogen energy project