Media release – Dean Winter MP, Shadow Minister for Energy & Emissions Reduction, 21 June 2023
Large hydrogen proponent leaves state in frustration of Government inaction
The Rockliff-Government’s appalling handling of the Hydrogen Action Plan is seeing Tasmanians lose their jobs and one of Australia’s largest businesses abandon its project.
Fortescue Future Industries, once touted by Energy Minister Guy Barnett has having the potential to create more than 350 construction jobs and 100 operational roles, has now left the state and sacked all its staff.
The mishandling of this important renewable energy project by Energy Minister Guy Barnett is causing chaos and obstructing growth in the sector.
There is deep frustration towards the minority Liberal Government that there is still no power or water available for their project – three years after the launch of the Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Action Plan.
Instead of securing new jobs for the state by grasping the opportunities of a hydrogen industry, Tasmania is the only place in the country where jobs in the booming renewable energy sector are being lost.
The missed opportunity is incomprehensible, especially when the government’s own plan stated that hydrogen would be produced by 2022-2024. It’s another broken promise.
Renewable energy projects are going backwards under the watch of Minister Barnett and it is clear that after 10 years of this Liberal Government, these exciting opportunities are not a priority for this government.
Comment supplied to Tasmanian Times – FFI spokesperson, 21 June 2023
— untitled —
FFI is committed to delivering green hydrogen projects in Australia and is making good progress across our portfolio.
We are continuing to work with stakeholders, including the Tasmanian Government, to secure power and water supply for our plans in Tasmania.
