Introduction

Given Australia’s desire to develop hydrogen both for the national energy targets and as an export commodity, this paper analyses and reviews the current policy settings in Australia to encourage the development of a clean hydrogen industry. In so doing, the paper examines the challenges and opportunities current policies will present as Australia seeks to stimulate clean hydrogen export industry. In analysing current hydrogen policies in Australia, this paper first examines the national hydrogen strategy, and the issues of hydrogen pricing, fuel security for Australia, and current developments. It then examines the emerging hydrogen governance framework. Drawing upon lessons in the development of the coal seam gas sector, this paper also considers the issues in regulation and governance, particularly in relation to gas-hydrogen blending. It concludes with an assessment of the needs of the regulatory framework to develop a competitive hydrogen sector.

This paper will be part of the OGEL Special Issue on "The Hydrogen Economy". More information here www.ogel.org/news.asp?key=648