As businesses look to reduce their carbon footprints, one company is exploring a multi-million-dollar project to transport freight between South Australia and Victoria with zero emissions.

Countrywide Hydrogen has launched a feasibility study into the construction of a “Hydrogen HyWay” between Adelaide and Melbourne. 

The study includes identifying sites for green hydrogen production and fuelling facilities, with Portland and Warrnambool in Victoria’s south-west, and Mount Gambier in South Australia’s south-east, identified as potential locations.

Countrywide Hydrogen managing director Geoff Drucker said the facilities would cost about $35 million and be completed by early 2027.

“If we look at what the outcomes are that we’re trying to achieve and how best to do that with minimum use of anything that’s going to be harmful to the environment, we’re on the right path,” he said.

What are fuel cells?

University of Technology Sydney’s Institute for Sustainable Futures research director Scott Dwyer said hydrogen fuel cell vehicles worked similarly to battery electric vehicles.

“They use hydrogen fuel which then powers the fuel cell which then creates electricity which drives the wheels of the car,” Dr Dwyer said.

“It’s similar, but the advantages — and why certain companies are pursuing hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles as opposed to pure electric vehicles — is that you can refill them faster in a much more similar way that you refuel your petrol or diesel-powered car.”