WA could become the world’s next hydrogen powerhouse

The West Australian government wants to make the state the world’s next hydrogen powerhouse.

Not only will WA be able to export the chemical, but locally it’ll mean lower energy prices, zero emissions cars and cheaper servicing for vehicles.

The Minister for Regional Development Alannah MacTiernan says she wants the industry up and running within five years.

“To create renewable hydrogen you need vast stretches of land and high-quality renewable energy resources - two things Western Australia has in abundance,” she said.

“This state has a long history of delivering energy and resources to the world, with established infrastructure and supply chains.”

But it won’t be easy as experts say WA is already at least ten years behind the US and Europe, who already have strong hydrogen markets.

Hydrogen is in demand because it’s a clean fuel made from renewable energy.

It can be used for everything from heavy industry to fueling cars.

It could mean much cheaper electricity prices and cars that are a lot less expensive to run and don’t need servicing as much as traditional petrol and diesel vehicles.