Orica, a chemicals and explosives manufacturer, has announced its decision to proceed with a significant green hydrogen project in Newcastle, New South Wales. The company received $432 million in government backing to establish the Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub, following the exit of its partner, Origin Energy. The project will involve the construction of a 50 MW electrolyser to produce renewable energy, with the initial phase expected to generate 4,700 tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually. This production aims to replace natural gas in Orica's ammonia and ammonium nitrate production processes. The project received approval from the NSW government and additional funding from state and federal sources. Energy and Climate Change minister Chris Bowen highlighted the project's importance in securing jobs and decarbonising industries in the region, emphasizing the shift towards clean-tech solutions. Orica's CEO, Sanjeev Gandhi, expressed the company's commitment to sustainability and the potential for renewable hydrogen to support Australia's hydrogen industry's growth. The project has also been praised by the Australian Hydrogen Council for its role in supporting Orica's decarbonisation goals and facilitating the transition away from coal-based economies. Overall, the initiative represents a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Hunter Valley region.