Powering a Greener Future: Barwon South West Leads the Hydrogen Revolution
Viva Energy Hub, Geelong
As advocates for sustainable energy solutions, the Australian Renewables Academy is thrilled to spotlight the Barwon South West Renewable Hydrogen Prospectus—a bold, region-led blueprint that charts the future of #renewable #hydrogen in #Geelong and beyond. (see link to the Prospectus here: https://www.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/400276/Hydrogen-Prospectus_Electronic-Version.pdf)
Anchored by over 40 partners—from water utilities to industry innovators—this Prospectus is a testament to what coordinated collaboration can achieve. Geelong is, as Shaun Cumming, MD at Barwon Water, aptly put it, "not too heavy… not too light"—a region with enough strength to pioneer, and enough agility to deliver.
What sets this initiative apart is that it's built around five strategic strengths: #renewable energy, #recycled water, land availability, research and skills, and access to markets. These form a significant foundation for a thriving hydrogen ecosystem.
But the story doesn't stop at theory. Barwon Water and its partners are already driving innovation (and we love theory that leads to clean energy innovation!):
Fuel-cell trucks powered by hydrogen are collecting organic waste, propelling us toward zero-emission transport for heavy vehicles.
A $61 million hydrogen refuelling hub now operates in Geelong, turning recycled water and renewable energy into green hydrogen—and fueling Victoria's first commercial-access hydrogen station.
And in a masterclass of circular economy thinking, green oxygen—usually wasted—is being repurposed to supercharge wastewater treatment, dramatically cutting energy use.
At ARA, our mission aligns perfectly with this vision. Over the past 12 months, we've hosted two Dinner and Dialogue events in Geelong, bringing together key clean energy stakeholders to identify the workforce issues and opportunities that will shape this region's future. The conversations made it clear: building a renewable hydrogen economy (or indeed any clean energy economy) requires not just infrastructure, but also the people to design, deliver and sustain it.
That's why ARA is investing in training and workforce development programs to help regions like Barwon South West seize the opportunity of the energy transition. You can explore our programs here: https://australianrenewablesacademy.com.au/training; and https://australianrenewablesacademy.com.au/recoa-and-ara.
The '#Barwon model' shows how the water, energy and waste sectors can converge around hydrogen to deliver sustainable, smart outcomes that benefit communities, businesses and the climate. It's a replicable model—and a necessary one—for regions across Australia.
If you're looking for proof that regional collaboration and circular thinking can power real change—look no further. Barwon South West is leading the charge!