Renewable hydrogen has been introduced into Perth’s natural gas network for the first time as part of Western Australia’s renewable energy strategy.

Natural gas company ATCO will supply about 2700 businesses and households in Perth’s south with a blend of 98 per cent gas and two per cent hydrogen from Monday.

The company plans to increase the blend up to 10 per cent hydrogen in the future.

Energy Minister Bill Johnston said hydrogen would play a lead role in WA’s transition to net zero emissions by 2050.

“ATCO’s hydrogen blending project shows how emerging technology can be integrated with existing assets in the gas distribution system and balance energy needs,” he said.

“Blending renewable hydrogen with natural gas creates a pathway to lower emissions and drives us towards our net zero future.”

ATCO and Fortescue Future Industries also on Monday opened WA’s first renewable hydrogen refuelling station.

The station can fill hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in five minutes, providing for a range of up to 500 kilometres, emissions-free.

Tim Dornin
(Australian Associated Press)