Federal Minister Chris Bowen has revealed the final blueprint for the Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct, set to be Australia’s most advanced clean energy project.
Joined by Deputy Speaker the Hon. Sharon Claydon MP and Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody, Minister Bowen highlighted the Hunter region’s legacy as an industrial powerhouse and its future potential as a global clean energy leader.
“The Hunter has been an industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a Clean Energy Precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia’s renewable resources to the world,” Minister Bowen said. “The Albanese Labor Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with reliable renewable energy.”
Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody said the final design marks the project’s most significant milestone since the Commonwealth Government’s $100 million investment. The concept plan will be used to guide planning approvals and promote the site to prospective clean energy producers.
“This is the design that Port of Newcastle is offering global clean energy production companies and directs the planning approvals the Port will be seeking,” Carmody said.
The design allows for the production of a range of clean energy types, including hydrogen and ammonia, with planning informed by FEED and EIS studies and consultation with the community and Traditional Owners. Construction is expected to be expedited following approvals.
Carmody noted that the CEP has already attracted strong international interest, particularly from Germany, Japan, and South Korea.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, acknowledged the significance of transforming Australia’s largest coal port into a clean energy hub.
Deputy Speaker Sharon Claydon said, “This is a defining moment for Newcastle – a city that has helped power the nation for generations is preparing to power the future with clean energy. From coal to clean energy, this is what a transition looks like.”
The CEP forms part of the Port’s broader strategy to futureproof trade and energy exports from the Hunter region.