The NSW Government has announced a $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong (UOW) to lead a two-year research project aimed at improving hydrogen pipeline safety, bolstering the Illawarra’s role in the nation’s emerging hydrogen industry.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong, who made the announcement during a visit to the university, said the funding reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to fostering homegrown innovation to support the transition to a net zero economy.
“As we kick-off National Science week, the Minns Labor Government is excited to be backing critical hydrogen research with a $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong,” Chanthivong said.
“This project sits at the intersection of our Industry Policy and Innovation Blueprint, reflecting the importance of investing in scientific research to help solve the challenges shaping the future of some of our biggest industries.”
The research will focus on the leading cause of hydrogen pipeline failures and develop risk assessment and design tools to address them.
UOW is currently the only institution in Australia, and one of just five worldwide, with the capability to conduct such testing.
Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said the investment will help cement the Illawarra as a centre for energy innovation.
“Through this $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong, the Illawarra is poised to become a hub for scientific innovation,” Park said. “It’s fantastic to support the University of Wollongong in vital research that could address global challenges and positions the Illawarra as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.”
The project will involve collaboration with industry stakeholders including Inspiring Australia NSW and Science Space, and is expected to lower infrastructure costs by improving safety standards and regulations for hydrogen transportation.
Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said the funding builds on the region’s growing hydrogen credentials. “The Illawarra is leading the way in advancing hydrogen research and development through projects like the hydrogen bus trial, hydrogen-powered garbage trucks and the state’s first heavy vehicle hydrogen refuelling station,” Scully said.
“Building from this success, the grant to the University of Wollongong is a welcome means to further advance this research and innovation.”
UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Max Lu AO said the grant supports one of the university’s priority research areas.
“We appreciate the NSW Government’s funding for hydrogen pipeline research, a priority area for our university,” Professor Lu said.
“With expertise in green hydrogen and renewable energy, UOW is driving innovation in sustainable fuels to support economic growth in NSW and Australia.”
