New Business Model of an Indigenous-Led Project to Deploy 1m Solar Panels & Produce 50k Green Hydrogen for Agriculture

• 15 April 2024
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The East Kimberly Clean Energy Project, valued at US$3 billion, is set to revolutionise Australia’s energy landscape by deploying 1 million solar panels combined with existing hydropower infrastructure to produce 50,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. This green hydrogen will be further converted into ammonia for use as sustainable agricultural fertilizer. According to the World Economic Forum report dated 12 March 2024, construction of the project could commence by the end of 2025.

Situated in Australia’s remote northwest, the project is spearheaded by the Aboriginal Clean Energy Partnership, a new company formed specifically for this endeavour. Indigenous groups in Australia are integral partners in this green initiative, with three local indigenous groups each holding a 25% share in the business, representing the traditional landowners. This innovative ownership model, in collaboration with Pollination, a global climate and nature advisory firm, marks a significant milestone in Australia’s renewable energy sector.

The project’s unique approach aims to deliver economic benefits to indigenous shareholders while ensuring their active involvement in decision-making processes from inception. This inclusive strategy enhances local engagement and accelerates project delivery timelines.

The significance of indigenous peoples in environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation is underscored by the World Economic Forum’s 2023 report, which emphasises their critical role in maintaining Earth’s biodiversity. With one-third of the planet’s surface under their stewardship, indigenous peoples and local communities play a pivotal role in preserving environmental integrity.

To meet the ambitious target of producing 200 mega-tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, initiatives like the World Economic Forum’s Accelerating Clean Hydrogen Initiative are crucial. By fostering collaboration and accelerating clean hydrogen projects globally, such initiatives pave the way for a sustainable energy future aligned with net-zero objectives.

• Energy and Environment