The government has worked with the Barngarla traditional owners and the Whyalla City Council to secure land options for the power plant and for hydrogen production and storage facilities.

The sites within a fifteen kilometre radius to the north-east of Whyalla are close to critical infrastructure, transport links and existing and planned economic development.

They include a 238-hectare parcel of land in the Whyalla industrial estate and 8.7 hectares at the junction of Port Bonython Rd and the Lincoln Highway in the Cultana Industrial Estate, which are the preferred locations for the hydrogen production facility and hydrogen power station. The government says there is also potential for site connection through a dedicated hydrogen pipeline.

A third site adjacent to the Cultana industrial estate provides the opportunity for power generation and other infrastructure for the project.

The sites allow for future expansion and are distant from residential areas, reducing noise concerns.

“As the world looks to decarbonise, South Australia is making a once-in-a-generation investment in green hydrogen,” Infrastructure Minister Tom Koutsantonis said.

“The hydrogen power plant will play a major role in unlocking South Australia as a substantial global player in green hydrogen production and give the state an early advantage in attracting associated supply chain jobs, ongoing maintenance and potentially manufacturing.”

Also on Friday, the government released an international request for proposals from industry partners to help deliver the 250-megawatt hydrogen production facility, 200-megawatt hydrogen power plant and fit-for-purpose hydrogen storage infrastructure by December 2025.

The call focuses on the supply, construction and operation of the hydrogen plant and equipment as well as seeking interest in purchasing hydrogen produced at the facility.

Proposals will be accepted until February 21 next year with the government expecting to award contracts in July.

-AAP