Australia has committed $283 million to support a green hydrogen project led by Orica, with a goal to enhance renewable energy production and reduce pollution from industrial activities. The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub in New South Wales will be located on Kooragang Island and will utilize recycled water and electricity from renewable sources to produce hydrogen through a 50-megawatt electrolyzer. The project was initially scheduled to start in 2025 but faced delays when Origin Energy withdrew due to cost concerns, pushing the estimated operational launch to 2028. The plant is expected to annually produce 4,700 tons of hydrogen primarily for local usage in producing cleaner ammonia and ammonium nitrate. This initiative is praised by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) for its role in transitioning heavy industries to cleaner energy sources. Energy Minister Chris Bowen sees Australia's potential to lead in the green hydrogen industry, aiming to eventually export hydrogen while initially meeting domestic demands.