Fiona Simon, CEO of the Australian Hydrogen Council has addressed recent reactions to Fortescue’s revised hydrogen policy. Despite some claims that the change signals the end of low or zero emissions hydrogen in Australia Simon assures that this is not the case. She views the shift as part of a natural progression towards setting more focused priorities within the industry.

Simon highlighted that hydrogen’s role extends beyond any single company or announcement. Achieving net zero emissions will necessitate the use of low or zero emissions hydrogen in areas of the economy where electricity isn’t a feasible option. She noted “Hydrogen is larger than any one company or announcement.” This long-term vision includes major industrial uses projected into the 2030s and 2040s.

She explained that hydrogen’s applications are diverse. Apart from being used directly as a gas or liquid hydrogen will be crucial in producing green metals like steel and chemicals such as ammonia. These substances are essential for various purposes including fertilizers and future fuels for shipping and aviation.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the industry Simon pointed out the importance of government support through programs like Hydrogen Head start and the Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive. These initiatives are designed to bridge the commercial gap in hydrogen production. “We have always known this was a difficult industry to get up” she remarked. Additionally she stressed the need for demand-side support which the government is addressing through consultations on green metals and low carbon liquid fuels.

Simon also touched on the issue of high electricity prices which pose a challenge to producing low or zero emissions hydrogen. She agreed with Andrew Forrest’s concerns about the impact of these prices on hydrogen projects and called for more support to expand renewable energy and integrate storage into the energy market. “Electricity pricing is a real problem for making low/zero emissions hydrogen” she stated.

Recently, Simon has been active in media engagements including a detailed interview with Andy Park on ABC Radio National where she elaborated on these points.