Iain Martin
A new Deakin University research centre in Warrnambool could make hydrogen fuel cell trucking a reality in a partnership with Kenworth.
The $20 million HyceL@Warrnambool research and industry testing site could also position Warrnambool and the broader South-West region to tap into the world’s growing, multi-billion-dollar, hydrogen market.
The new Hydrogen Transition Centre will be set-up at the Warrnambool campus, creating professional work for up to 12 locals, as the first step in establishing the research and industry testing site, Deakin vice-chancellor professor Iain Martin says.
“The centre will partner with industry to apply Deakin University’s world-leading capabilities to solve one of our toughest transport issues; how to fuel the world’s trucking industries in a low carbon future,” he says.
“Freight trucking continues to grow here and overseas, and trucks are driving further, with heavier loads; all big challenges. The centre confirms Deakin’s commitment to the Warrnambool campus and the broader region, and when the HyceL@Warrnambool project is fully established it will create up to 200 full-time jobs.”
An Australian first, the Hydrogen Transition Centre is funded by $2 million in Federal Government research funding, announced at Deakin’s Warrnambool campus by the education minister Dan Tehan.
“The Federal Government investment will see our researchers partner with Australia’s leading truck manufacturer, Kenworth, as well as with industry leaders in hydrogen fuel-cells, electric vehicles and gas distribution,” Martin says.
Hydrogen fuel-cells create electricity from hydrogen and oxygen – producing only heat and water as a by-product.
The centre will test how fuel-cells can work together with electric vehicle technologies.
It will mean an electric truck can create power while driving, avoiding the need for frequent stops and battery charging infrastructure, Martin adds.
“If successful, the enhanced technologies could be used by Kenworth trucks made here in Australia, as well as those made internationally by Kenworth’s parent company PACCAR – a US Fortune 500 company.
“The technologies can also be applied to other heavy vehicles, such as buses, including those operated by Warrnambool Bus Lines.”
The centre supports the Warrnambool City Council’s ambitions of achieving carbon neutral status by 2040 and will also test hydrogen safety and distribution, including how natural gas pipes can safely transport hydrogen and support the region to make ‘green’ hydrogen an export commodity.
